• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has described the 17th Negros Island Organic Farmers’ Festival and 2nd Terra Madre Visayas, which concluded Saturday, as a “resounding success.”
In his speech at the closing ceremony, with Matthew John, president of the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM) Asia, as the guest of honor and speaker, Lacson acknowledged the organizers, participants, partners, and advocates for their invaluable contributions to the success of the five-day festival.
“You are the driving force behind this festival’s success, and together, we will continue to champion the cause of healthy food, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental stewardship,” Lacson said.
Negros Occidental is competing with Brisbane, Australia for the hosting of the Organic World Congress (OWC) in 2027, with the winner to be announced during the 21st OWC in Taiwan from Dec. 2 to 6 this year.
Lacson said that the event not only celebrates the collaborations that have made it a resounding success, but also the initiatives that are crucial in promoting sustainable agriculture for the future.
The winners of the Best Booth and other contests were also recognized and awarded during the closing ceremony. | GB