Organic Farmers Festival and Terra Madre Visayas set for November 15-19, 2023

Experience Organic Farmers Festival and Terra Madre Visayas 2023

The 16th edition of the Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival is slated for November 15 to 19, 2023, in Bacolod City, alongside the 1st Terra Madre Visayas.

Both festivals will be held on the same dates and at the same venues, which will be at the Provincial Capitol grounds, North Capitol Road, Negros Residences, and the Food Terminal Market of Occidental Negros (FTMON).

Since the maiden festival in 2006, the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental have hosted this annual gathering, the longest-running organic festival in the Philippines and in Asia.

Leading this year’s activities are Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental and Governor Manuel Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental.

Gov. Sagarbarria has pledged his support to rekindle the partnership between Occidental and Oriental Negros, with the shared aspiration of making Negros an organic island, according to Dina Genzola, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Negros Occidental Provincial Agriculturist.

This year’s theme, “Regeneration for Future Generations,” will highlight the importance of eco-friendly farming practices, emphasizing the concept of sustainable regenerative farming, Genzola said.

The Organic Fair and Exhibit, a standout feature of the festival, will showcase the best of organic offerings, as visitors feast on an array of farm produce, products, and merchandise, Genzola added.

Aside from the fair, the festival will host cook fests, caravans, cultural performances, talent nights, and awards ceremonies.

A comprehensive lineup of seminars, workshops, and conventions will cover diverse topics, including sustainable regenerative farming and fishing, indigenous practices, organic agriculture, water conservation, entrepreneurship, women and youth empowerment, food and beverages, and health and wellness.

Esteemed guests from IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements) ASIA, including representatives from Korea and India, are also joining the festival.

“As the spotlight shines on Negros Island, we can expect that this November will be a momentous occasion for sustainable farming, culture, and biodiversity,” Genzola emphasized.

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

The Province of Negros Occidental has long been celebrated as the “Organic Agriculture Capital of the Philippines.”

Its rich history is deeply…