21-25 September 2026
The Benguet State University Office of Extension Services (OES) trained 33 Cordillera participants during the 9th BSU Internal Guarantee System (BIGS) Qualifying Course to strengthen their knowledge and skills in organic agriculture.
The activity opened with discussions on the BIGS system, organic agriculture, and the legal basis of organic agriculture in the Philippines. The sessions also covered expectations, soil fertility management, and other essential practices that support safe and sustainable farm production.
The training is part of the OES’ initiatives that facilitate the transfer and utilization of technologies and knowledge generated and adopted by the University. The office also spearheads training programs in organic agriculture and the operations of the BIGS Center.
As part of the course, participants had the opportunity to visit BSU organic farms, where they observed actual farming practices and interacted with organic farmers. The farm visits provided a venue for participants to ask questions, exchange experiences, and learn from the farmers’ actual experiences in implementing organic agriculture practices.
The interaction also allowed participants to better appreciate the practical challenges and opportunities involved in organic farming, from farm management and soil fertility to pest and disease management and postharvest handling.
The BIGS initiative has historically been designed to help farmers understand and follow standards for organic farming. The farmers who complete the qualifying course may undergo farm inspection and monitoring as part of the BIGS process.
The participants also engaged in hands-on activities designed to complement the lectures. Among the practical sessions were harvesting, packing, and labeling of farm produce, giving participants direct experience in proper postharvest handling and presentation of organic products.
Another hands-on component focused on natural farming and the preparation of organic fertilizer. Through demonstrations and guided activities, participants were able to translate the concepts discussed during the lectures into practical skills that can be applied in their respective farms and communities.
The combination of classroom discussions, farm visits, farmer interactions, and hands-on activities provided participants with a more comprehensive learning experience on organic agriculture and the BIGS approach.
The five-day course concluded with discussions, assessment, and the closing program, including the awarding of certificates to participants.
Through the 9th BIGS Qualifying Course, BSU-OES continues to strengthen its extension role in promoting sustainable and organic agricultural practices among farmers and other stakeholders in the Cordillera.
The BIGS continues to be part of the University’s efforts to support and strengthen organic agriculture in the Cordillera. Through the provision of technical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on learning experiences, the training equips participants with a better understanding of organic farming standards and practices. The initiative contributes to the development of more knowledgeable and capable organic agriculture practitioners and strengthens BSU’s continuing partnership with farming communities toward sustainable agriculture.//NSudaypan
