The Isabela State University Roxas (ISUR) Campus, through its School of Agriculture and Agribusiness (SAA), successfully conducted a Technical Briefing and Workshop on the Philippine National Standards (PNS): Code on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Rice and High-Value Crop (HVC) Production on March 6, 2025. Organized in partnership with the Department of Agriculture – Region 2 (DA-RFO 2), this event underscores ISU’s commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.
The workshop aimed to equip faculty members, students, and local farmers with the essential knowledge and technical skills necessary for implementing GAP in rice and HVC production. By integrating these standards, ISU-Roxas aspires to become the first certified GAP-compliant campus within the ISU system, setting a benchmark for sustainable farming practices in the region. This initiative aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 15: Life on Land, as it promotes food security, sustainable farming, and environmental conservation.
The training commenced with an opening ceremony, where campus officials, led by Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista, along with faculty members from SAA, staff from the Provincial Institute of Fisheries (PIF), Campus Resource Generation Management (CRGM), and representatives from DA-Region 2, emphasized the importance of adopting GAP to ensure food safety, environmental sustainability, and farm productivity. The event featured resource speakers from the DA and accredited GAP experts, who delivered insightful discussions on various GAP-related topics. Ms. Remedios A. Dela Rosa, DA-RFO2 Regulatory Division Chief, provided an overview of Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and the Food Safety Act of 2013 (RA 10611). Mr. Reden Mark T. Casem offered an in-depth discussion on the Philippine National Standard: Code on GAP for Rice and High-Value Crops, including soil sampling and analysis. Mr. Raymark A. Calderon elaborated on best practices in rice and HVC production, while Mr. Derwin P. Fernando explained the PhilGAP Certification process, its requirements, and how farmers and institutions can achieve compliance.
A major highlight of the workshop was the interactive learning sessions, where participants engaged in practical discussions and simulations to apply GAP principles in real farm settings. Faculty members and students from SAA actively participated in these activities, enhancing their understanding of GAP requirements. Additionally, the DA shared insights on government programs and support services available for farmers and institutions striving for GAP compliance.
Following the seminar, participants visited the ISUR AgriTech farm, allowing them to observe and assess actual farming practices in relation to GAP standards. This field activity provided valuable hands-on experience in evaluating farm infrastructure, soil and water management, and post-harvest handling techniques. Experts guided participants in identifying areas for improvement and strategies for enhancing farm efficiency and sustainability.
The event concluded with a closing ceremony, where participants shared their insights and key takeaways from the training. Campus officials reaffirmed their commitment to adopting and promoting GAP principles, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies in advancing sustainable agriculture. With overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, the SAA plans to conduct more capacity-building activities in partnership with DA-Region 2 and other relevant agencies. This initiative strengthens ISU’s role as a leader in agricultural education, research, and extension services, ultimately benefiting students, farmers, and the broader agricultural sector.