Davao City – The DA-BAFS Organic Agriculture Division (OAD) through its Registration Section conducted a week-long seminar workshop to the qualified researchers as a prerequisite for the accreditation of OBCA researchers on September 15 to 19, 2025 in Davao City.
The activity was graced by DA-RFO XI Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Zabdiel Zacarias. RTD Zacarias gave his message of support to the activity, highlighting the importance of building networks and partnerships with agencies like DA-RFO XI, DA-BAFS and the private institutions to strengthen the organic agriculture sector. He also commended the efforts of the DA-BAFS and the participants to their commitment to the highly-technical capacity building activity. Our director, Director Mary Grace Mandigma also extends her gratitude to the participants who upon accreditation shall serve our OBCA stakeholders on the conduct of efficacy trials. She provided emphasis on the proactive approach of the Bureau by opening the possible discussion on updating the 2nd Edition of OBCA Manual, focusing on covering the assessment of pest and diseases affecting Philippine export crops and other emerging pests of major agricultural commodities.
The activity focused on the discussion of the DA-BAFS regulatory mandates, and Philippine National Standards relevant to organic Agriculture. Presentations on functions of OBCA researchers, 2nd Edition of OBCA Manual and the standards protocol development was also discussed. Part of the workshop was for the researchers to develop their own efficacy trial protocol matrix based on the previous discussions. These protocols were presented by the participant and evaluated by the Registration Section.
A mock field compliance assessment activity (FCA) was also conducted at the DA-RFO XI Research Station at Manambulan, Davao City. The participants and the training management team were welcomed by the DA-RFO Research Division led by their chief, Ms. Melanie A. Provido. She was thoroughly on-board with the idea that personnel from their Regional Crop Protection Center and Research Division will secure their accreditation as there are several inquiries of efficacy testing in their station. She also added that the membership of their Regulatory Division personnel to the DA-BAFS FCA team will increase the capacity of their agency on OBCA regulations.
The mock FCA served as the hands-on-training of the participants on the actual activities being conducted within the duration of approved Experimental Use Permit and while conducting the efficacy trials. The participants enthusiastically raised their questions and sought further clarifications on the process involved which were addressed by the training management team.
To conclude the activity, the participants shared their experiences based on their expectations cited on the first day. They shared that it was evident that the activity provided them knowledge and insights on the organic agriculture sector.
