Tubungan, Iloilo — The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) carried out the first surveillance assessment of the Tubungan Vegetable Producer Association (TVPA) Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Group from July 7 to 10, 2025. The activity aimed to verify the group’s ongoing compliance with accreditation requirements as an Organic Certifying Body (OCB).
The assessment involved an in-depth, office-based review of records, procedures, and documentation. In addition, the team observed peer review activities to evaluate whether the group continues to demonstrate competence, impartiality, and consistency in implementing its Manual of Operations.
The DA-BAFS Assessment Team was supported by technical staff from the DA Regional Field Office and the ATI Regional Training Center VI, along with representatives from the Provincial Government of Iloilo and the Municipal Government of Tubungan, who provided assistance throughout the process.
This surveillance assessment is part of DA-BAFS’ continuing efforts to strengthen the implementation of the PGS in Iloilo and ensure that organic certification bodies operate with transparency and integrity. The results will determine whether the TVPA PGS Core Group will maintain its accreditation status.
