Law Summary
Definitions
- Organic: Farming and processing systems as per Philippine National Standards; synonymous with biological or ecological.
- Organic Agriculture: Ecologically sound, socially acceptable, economically viable production avoiding chemical inputs and GMOs.
- Organic Production System: Biodiversity enhancement, soil fertility maintenance, waste recycling, pollution minimization, biotechnology use excluding GMOs.
- Conversion Period: Time for land or production to change to organic status.
- Biodegradable Wastes: Organic matter used for compost and organic fertilizer from various sources.
- Commercialization: Introduction of new agricultural technology for economic benefit.
- Certification and Accreditation: Procedures for assurance and official recognition of organic standards compliance.
- Types of Certification: First (producer), Second (buyer/industry), Third party (independent).
- Organic Food/Input Establishment: Entities producing organic food or inputs.
Coverage
- Applicable to policy formulation, research and development, promotion of facilities and inputs, and implementation of organic agricultural programs.
National Organic Agricultural Program
- Comprehensive program promoting organic farming practices through research, capacity building, consumer education, and support to stakeholders.
National Organic Agricultural Board (NOAB)
- Policy-making body attached to the Department of Agriculture.
- Includes members from various government agencies, small farmers, NGOs, academic institutions, and private sector.
- Ensures public participation through consultations.
Powers and Functions of NOAB
- Formulate policies and programs for organic agriculture development.
- Oversee implementation and monitor performance.
- Identify financing sources.
- Ensure international recognition of certifications.
- Coordinate with government agencies and private sectors.
- Submit periodic reports and promulgate necessary rules.
Role of Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards (BAFPS)
- Serve as technical and administrative secretariat for NOAB.
- Implement organic agriculture programs.
- Update NOAB on status.
- Develop networks with stakeholders.
Local Executive Committees
- LGUs to form technical committees for program implementation at provincial and municipal levels.
- Ensure local industries are informed and have viable supply plans.
- Monitor compliance within jurisdictions.
Accreditation and Registration
- BAFPS grants accreditation to organic certifying bodies.
- Mandates registration of organic food and input producers with detailed information.
Labeling and Retailing
- Organic labels must include certifying body logo and BAFPS accreditation number.
- Only third-party certified products may be labeled organic.
- Retailers must designate separate display areas for organic produce.
Trading Posts for Organic Inputs
- Local executives encouraged to establish trading posts for organic inputs within LGUs.
Research, Development and Extension (RDE)
- Led by Bureau of Agricultural Research.
- Coordinate RDE plans across agencies and develop technologies and market strategies for organic agriculture.
- Organize organic agriculture RDE network and establish RDE centers.
Education and Awareness
- Integrate organic agriculture in formal and non-formal education through DepED and coordination with various stakeholders.
Incentives
- Government incentives for production and use of organic inputs and certified organic farms.
- Include duty exemptions, local tax incentives, preferential loan rates, VAT exemptions, income tax holidays.
- Incentives limited to micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Appropriations
- Initial funding of Php 50 million appropriated from DA budget.
- Future funding included in General Appropriations Act.
- NOAB authorized to solicit grants.
Penal Provisions
- Penalties for obstructing organic agriculture development, refusing support, or mislabeling products.
- Imprisonment from 1 to 6 months, or fine up to Php 50,000, or both.
- Corporate officials and government employees liable with additional penalties.
Implementing Rules and Regulations
- NOAB to adopt rules within 90 days of effectivity and submit to Congressional Oversight Committee on Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization (COCAFM).
- DOF consulted for tax incentives.
Reporting and Oversight
- NOAB to submit annual reports to Congress.
- COCAFM to review and monitor implementation, funds, and NOAB performance.
Other Provisions
- Separability clause ensures unaffected provisions remain valid if any part declared unconstitutional.
- Repealing clause removes inconsistent laws and regulations.
- Act effective 15 days after publication in newspapers or Official Gazette.