On November 12, 2024, the humble Barangay Hall of Cabugao was alive with energy and purpose as 25 individuals—farmers, DA technicians, and focal persons—gathered for an Organic Farming Orientation. What began as a simple gathering quickly turned into an inspiring showcase of nature’s potential and humanity’s responsibility to nurture it.

The event opened with a heartfelt prayer by Ma’am Melanie Pueyo, President of the Cabugao Farmers Association, setting a tone of gratitude and hope. Punong Barangay Imelda Cabucos followed with a poignant message:

“We are very lucky to have this kind of activity because all of us depend on the products of our farms. Let us listen and be mindful.”

Her words served as a rallying cry, reminding attendees that farming is not just a livelihood—it’s a lifeline.

A Lesson in Connection

The day’s discussions, led by the passionate Ma’am Genalyn Fernandez, revolved around the philosophy and practicality of organic farming. “Nature can produce on its own,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of connecting with and understanding the land. According to her, farmers must learn when and where to establish this connection because, as she beautifully put it, “Nature can feel and hear us.”

Inspire the Next Generation: With most farmers being older, Ma’am Genalyn stressed the need for young people to engage with farming. Parents were encouraged to pass on their love for planting to their children, cultivating a culture of care and sustainability.

Leverage Natural Resources: Ma’am Melanie Pueyo shared how cow manure, a natural fertilizer, can replace harmful chemicals. This simple shift can lead to healthier produce and a safer environment.

The Organic Revolution

Ma’am Genalyn’s message was clear: Chemical fertilizers and pesticides pose risks, especially when farmers and their families are also consumers of the produce. Natural alternatives not only protect health but also ensure the safety of the environment for future generations.

Kagawad Sheryl echoed this sentiment, urging the farmers:

“We should practice the natural and organic way of farming because it benefits not just our health but also the safety of our families.”

Seedbanking: A Community Vision

The session concluded with a forward-thinking plan to establish a seedbanking area for all farmers. This initiative, to be supported by SEA and the Department of Agriculture, promises to provide a foundation for sustainable farming practices and a stronger, more resilient farming community.

An Inspiring Call to Action

The Organic Farming Orientation was more than just a workshop; it was a reminder of our shared duty to protect and sustain the environment. It emphasized that farming is not merely an individual task—it’s a collective effort that requires innovation, tradition, and a deep respect for nature.

As the participants left the hall, they carried with them more than just new knowledge—they carried a renewed sense of purpose. Barangay Cabugao’s farmers are not just cultivating crops; they are sowing the seeds of a healthier, more sustainable future for their community.

And as Ma’am Genalyn so powerfully stated, “Let us connect with nature, for it is through this connection that we thrive.”