April 11, 2023 — The City Government of Balanga under the City Agriculture Office pushes its approach towards learning and skill-building, where farmers are trained in their own fields through hands-on practice and observation in farming. This initiative was celebrated with a graduation ceremony for the Farmer’s Field School (FFS) on Organic Pigmented Rice Production held at Barangay Cabog-Cabog.

During the event, Brgy. Captain Hon. Efren Zarraga recognized the city government’s support to the agriculture sector through City Agriculturist Ms. Nerissa Mateo and Organic Agriculture Focal Person who also served as the teacher of the program, Mr. Jimmy Sombilla.

On behalf of City Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia and Committee Chairperson on Agriculture Hon. Benigno Meriño, Ms. Mateo further emphasized Mr. Zarraga’s remarks, recognizing the city’s commitment in promoting sustainable farming practices, such as the fertilizer subsidy, City Seedling Bank, and Organic Farming Program.

Regional Organic Focal Person Ms. Eduviges Pelayo acknowledged the city government for its initiatives that continuously support the farmers, such as the organic livelihood program and the donation of machinery which they use up to this day. She also highlighted the importance of bayanihan for the future of families since safer food consumption leads to healthier citizens.

Meanwhile, Ms. Mateo, Ms. Pelayo, Mr. Zarraga, and Provincial Organic Focal Person Ms. Imelda Camacho led the awarding of certificates to the thirty-four (34) graduates of FFS on Organic Pigmented Rice Production.

It was followed by Farmer’s Testimony by Mr. Pilar Farrales and Mr. Rere Destura who expressed their gratitude to the focal persons involved in this initiative.

To liven up the program, farmers gave song and dance performances.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Camacho expressed her joy in the initiative that resulted in the production of quality organic products and healthier citizens.

Also present in the event were Samahang Magsasaka ng Cabog-Cabog (SAMACA) President Mr. Leodegario Mamalateo, farmers from Manimas Irrigators Association, and barangay councilors.

FFS plays a vital role in providing farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills for sustainable organic pigmented rice cultivation, including seed selection, crop management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling.