Lesson 1: Laws, Organizations, and Government Agencies Supporting Agriculture PDF

# Lesson 1: Laws, Organizations, and Government Agencies Supporting Agriculture ## Ready Have you ever wondered how the laws, organizations, and government come together to make farming work? They are a powerful combination in shaping the way farmers operate, communities thrive, and sustainable pr...

# Lesson 1: Laws, Organizations, and Government Agencies Supporting Agriculture ## Ready Have you ever wondered how the laws, organizations, and government come together to make farming work? They are a powerful combination in shaping the way farmers operate, communities thrive, and sustainable practices take root. ## Laws on Agriculture 1. **Republic Act No. 10068**, also known as the "Organic Agriculture Act of 2010," promotes and supports organic farming practices. It emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural methods, encouraging the use of organic inputs, natural resources, and indigenous farming knowledge. Additionally, it aims to enhance the productivity and income of organic farmers while safeguarding consumer health and environmental integrity. It established the National Organic Agriculture Program, which includes initiatives for research, extension services, certification, and market development to advance the country's organic agriculture sector. The law reinforced the government's commitment to fostering a strong and ecologically sound agricultural industry. 2. **Republic Act No. 9003**, also known as the "Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000," addresses the proper management and disposal of solid waste. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and composting to minimize the environmental impact of waste generation. Additionally, it establishes mechanisms for waste segregation at the source, creation of materials recovery facilities (MRFs), and implementation of recycling programs. It encourages local government units (LGUs) to formulate solid waste management plans and ensures their compliance with national guidelines. Moreover, it aims to promote environmental sustainability, public health, and community involvement in waste management practices across the country. 3. **The Local Government Code of 1991** in the Philippines empowers local government units (LGUs) to create and enforce local ordinances specific to their communities. In the context of agriculture, this means LGUs can formulate regulations addressing farming practices, land use, and environmental concerns. These local ordinances for agriculture, guided by the code, enable tailored and context-specific policies that promote sustainable farming and address the unique needs of each community. ## Government Agencies 1. **The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)** is tasked with the conservation and management of the country's environment and natural resources. In addition, it formulates and implements policies related to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, land management, and sustainable resource utilization. In agriculture, it plays a role in ensuring responsible land use and environmental management. 2. **The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)** is focused on promoting the growth and competitiveness of the Philippines' trade and industry sectors. It supports the agriculture sector by facilitating trade, promoting agribusiness development, and implementing programs that enhance the competitiveness of local products in domestic and international markets. 3. **The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)** oversees labor and employment issues in the Philippines. It ensures the welfare of agricultural workers, addresses labor-related concerns, and promotes decent working conditions in the agricultural sector. 4. **The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)** focuses on the development and application of science and technology in various sectors. 5. **Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)** gives technical education, training programs, and skills development initiatives for individuals involved in farming, agribusiness, and related fields. 6. **Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)** provides training and extension services to enhance the skills and knowledge of farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture sector. ## International Agencies **Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)** is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to addressing global issues related to food security, agriculture, and rural development. It aims to reduce hunger, improve nutrition, and improve agricultural productivity worldwide. Also, it provides technical assistance, research, and policy support to member countries in achieving sustainable agriculture and rural development. ## Refresh * Laws such as RA 10068 and RA 9003 show that farming is not only about growing plants but also emphasizes sustainability, environmental responsibility, and community welfare. * Various government agencies work together to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to the agricultural development of the country. * By acquiring technical education and skills, farmers can enhance their agriculture skills and agribusinesses. * International organizations like FAO aim to implement sustainable farming practices to improve the health of people worldwide. ## Refine Look for a local farmer, gardener, or agriculturist and ask them the questions below. Share your learnings in class. 1. What do you like most about farming? 2. Do you know any rules or laws about farming in our area? 3. How do you take care of your farm and the environment? 4. Have you heard of any groups or organizations that help people like you? 5. What is your favorite thing to grow? Why?