A total of 100 singkamas farmers from Moncada and Pura, Tarlac participated in Philippine Good Agricultural Practices, or PhilGAP, training aimed at improving farming standards and expanding opportunities for locally produced crops.

The Department of Agriculture Central Luzon conducted the activities on September 3, with 50 farmers participating in Moncada and another 50 in Pura.

Farmers learn PhilGAP requirements

The training introduced farmers to Good Agricultural Practices and explained the requirements and procedures involved in applying for PhilGAP certification.

DA Central Luzon Regulatory Division officials led the program, with resource speakers discussing production standards, food safety and the certification process.

PhilGAP is designed to encourage farming practices that improve the quality and safety of agricultural products while helping producers meet requirements demanded by larger markets.

Expanding market opportunities

The training is also intended to help singkamas growers strengthen their farming methods and improve their ability to access broader domestic and potential export markets.

DA Central Luzon said compliance with PhilGAP standards and other market requirements could create additional opportunities for Tarlac's singkamas producers.

The initiative highlights the continuing importance of agriculture to communities in Moncada and Pura and the role of training and certification in increasing the competitiveness of local produce.