Law Summary
The National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP)
- Implemented by the Department of Agriculture.
- Key focus areas include regulations and guidelines, certification and accreditation, market promotion, dissemination of information, research, development, and extension services.
Establishment and Composition of the National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB)
- Chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture.
- Vice-Chaired by Secretaries of Trade and Industry and Health departments.
- Includes Secretaries of Interior and Local Government, Environment and Natural Resources, Science and Technology.
- Seven representatives from private sector, NGOs, certification bodies, and academe engaged in organic agriculture.
- Members serve three-year terms; consecutive terms are restricted unless partial terms served.
- National Technical Committee (NTC) created as implementing arm.
- Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards acts as secretariat.
Functions, Duties and Responsibilities of NOAB and NTC
- NOAB formulates policies, oversees implementation, coordinates with agencies and private sector, identifies funding sources, and reports to the Office of the President.
- NTC implements programs/projects, updates NOAB, fosters networking, and undertakes necessary functions to enforce the Executive Order.
Compliance with Organic Standards
- Mandatory adoption of Philippine National Standard for Organic Agriculture (PNS/BAFPS 07:2003 ICS.65.020) across all relevant sectors nationwide.
Organic Accreditation
- Department of Agriculture accredits certifying bodies according to established guidelines (Administrative Order 13, Series of 2003).
Labeling Requirements for Organic Products
- In addition to existing labeling under PNS/BAFPS 07:2003, products must comply with further prescribed contents to guarantee authenticity.
Research, Development and Extension
- Collaborative efforts among DA, DOST, State Colleges and Universities, scientific organizations, and research institutions.
- Focus on environmental protection, soil improvement, cost reduction, product quality enhancement, and value-addition for international competitiveness.
Appropriations
- Initial budget allocation of not less than Five Million Pesos (PHP 5,000,000) from DA funds and Presidential Social Fund.
- Subsequent budget provisions included in annual General Appropriations Act.
Implementation Guidelines
- The Board is tasked to formulate implementing rules and regulations within ninety (90) working days in consultation with relevant agencies and stakeholders.
Separability Clause
- Invalidity of any provision does not affect the remainder of the Executive Order.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.