By JEN BAYLON
The 17th Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival and Slow Food Terra Madre Visayas officially opened at the Negros Occidental Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City yesterday, sharing the responsibility to create a sustainable and food-secure future.
During the event, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson highlighted the urgent need for sustainable practices to safeguard the future of the environment and food security, acknowledging the pressing global challenges, including climate change, poverty, and food and water security.
“As we face these challenges, the question arises: What kind of future awaits our children?” Lacson said.
To secure that future, he said, we must meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
“Our natural resources are finite. Organic farming and the Slow Food movement play a critical role in promoting sustainability and protecting biodiversity,” Lacson said.
He acknowledged the invaluable contributions of various partners, underscoring that sustainable agriculture not only contributes to environmental health but also improves the lives of farmers and their families.
“By supporting local organic products, we support the livelihoods of our farmers,” Lacson said.
“Agriculture is more than just planting crops; it’s a powerful tool for lifting people out of poverty, ensuring food security and saving the planet,” he pointed out.
Lacson emphasized the importance of the Slow Food movement and organic farming practices in building a sustainable and equitable future.
The Slow Food movement champions the preservation of ecosystems and the promotion of responsible food systems.
These principles align with Negros Island’s long-standing commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
Lacson also highlighted the province’s leadership in organic farming, noting that Negros Occidental, together with Negros Oriental, has long been at the forefront of promoting organic agriculture in the Philippines.
The province’s efforts have earned the prestigious National Award for Top Performing Organic Agriculture Province, he said.
“Negros Island is in a strong position to lead the way in organic farming, and together, we can make a significant impact,” Lacson said.
“Our participation in this event demonstrates our firm belief in our collective strength — that we can transform the future of agriculture here in Bacolod and Negros Occidental,” he added.
The governor stressed the urgency of restoring damaged ecosystems and preserving remaining natural habitats, warning that the time for action is now.
He quoted civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., saying, “There is such a thing as being too late,” emphasizing the critical nature of the work ahead.
Lacson reaffirmed the provincial government’s unwavering support for good, clean and fair food, as well as its dedication to advancing sustainable farming practices for the people of Bacolod and Negros.
The event, which will run until Saturday, November 23, was attended by various key stakeholders, agricultural experts and advocates for sustainable farming.
It will feature lectures, exhibits and a showcase of local organic products, providing an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders committed to the cause of sustainable agriculture./JB, WDJ