Vegetable growers from the San Florentino Food Garden Association (SaFFGA) in San Rafael, Iloilo is one step closer to raising the standard of their local produce following a comprehensive Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) assessment conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regulatory Division last January 28.
Leading the team was Rene Baldevia, Senior Agriculturist, together with Ellen Banda, Agriculturist II and Brian Calanao, Agriculturist I. They evaluated SaFFGA’s vegetable production to determine compliance with PhilGAP standards. The review focused on three key areas: food safety, environmental sustainability, and workers’ welfare.
Mr. Arnold Balairos, SaFFGA President, affirmed that their application was driven by the desire for quality produce and to ensure food safety. By obtaining PhilGAP certification, the group can use it as leverage where they can benefit from improved market opportunities, access new markets, increase customers’ trust, and improve their farm management practices.
“Importante guid ang monitoring agud mapasangkad ang kredibilidad sang aton lokal nga mga produkto,” said Ms. Banda. “Paagi sa pagsunod sang ginpatuman nga GAP, masiguro sang asosasyon ang kalidad sang ila ginabaligya indi lamang diri San Rafael kundi sa iban pa nga mga banwa.”
[Monitoring is vital to maintaining the credibility of our local products. By adhering to these standards, SaFFGA ensures that their products remain competitive and trusted, whether sold within San Rafael or to outside markets.]
The evaluation included a thorough review of documentary requirements, on-site facilities, and daily farming operations. With support from SAAD Area Coordinator Riczan H. Galan and the San Rafael Municipal Agriculture Office, the activity provided clear guidance for the association as it moves toward more professional and market-ready agricultural practices.
Following the assessment, SaFFGA expressed its full commitment to consistently uphold GAP standards, ensuring that every harvest delivered to consumers is safe, high-quality, and sustainably produced. ###
