The 2024 Negros Island Organic Farmers’ Festival and Terra Madre Visayas, held at the Negrense Residences in Bacolod City, kicked off with a strong showing of support for organic farming and the slow food movement. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, alongside Ramon Uy Jr. from Slow Food International and members of the Pasil Slow Food Community from Kalinga, emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering sustainable agriculture and preserving biodiversity and community health.
The festival, which runs until November 23, features 101 exhibitors showcasing organic produce and promoting slow food principles. On its opening day, sales reached an impressive PHP314,507, according to the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist. This marks the second year that Terra Madre Visayas has been held in conjunction with the festival, which is now in its 17th year.
Governor Lacson highlighted the significance of organic farming and the slow food movement in meeting current needs without compromising future generations’ abilities. He stressed that these initiatives not only promote sustainable practices but also champion biodiversity and community health. The slow food movement, focusing on clean and fair food, aligns with the province’s vision for a sustainable and equitable future.
The event also aims to foster stronger partnerships among stakeholders passionate about sustainable practices. Governor Lacson hopes that through cooperation, dialogue, and food education, the festival will strengthen the resolve for sustainable and fair agriculture and environmental protection.
In addition to the exhibits, the festival includes forums on various topics with experts, while Terra Madre Visayas organizes food talks and taste workshops. Negros Occidental, recognized as the top performing organic agriculture province in the Philippines, is also bidding to host the 2027 Organic World Congress (OWC), competing against Brisbane, Australia. The winner will be announced at the 21st OWC in Taiwan from December 2 to 6, 2024. The triennial event attracts thousands of organic farmers, producers, researchers, advocates, and policy experts worldwide to share experiences, innovations, and knowledge about organic agriculture.