In a bid to address the concerns surrounding climate change and its impact on agriculture, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 (DA-RFO 8), through the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) Program, is taking proactive steps to incentivize and promote organic farming in vulnerable areas.
Organic farming, an eco-conscious agricultural approach, relies on natural processes and practices, effectively eliminating synthetic chemicals from farming activities. This method contributes to environmental protection and offers health benefits while fostering sustainability.
AMIA has been at the forefront of supporting organic farming. Several briefings and orientations on organic fertilizer production occurred in various villages across Region 8. These initiatives have been pivotal in empowering local communities.
A significant aspect of this initiative is the introduction of vermicomposting technology. Among the eight AMIA villages, four sites, namely Sta. Rita, Libagon, Babatngon, and Caibiran established a vermicomposting facility, while the remaining four have set up temporary vermicomposting beds.
In Caibiran, Biliran, vermicast production has become a source of increased income. Local farmers produce 6-8 sacks of vermicast, which they sell for P15-20.00 per kilogram.
The ongoing support from AMIA has driven beneficiaries from all sites to establish vermicomposting, signifying a shift towards considering vermicast production as a potential commercial venture. This move not only boosts local economies but also bolsters sustainable agriculture.