The Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay in Palawan will promote organic vegetable farming in the province to help augment the income of farmers as well as to address the problem of climate change. Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay Bishop Broderick Pabillo said the vicariate has already provided free training on the benefits of organic farming to farmers and other interested individuals. “We are teaching them to shift to organic farming for health reasons. They will also be able to save because organic farming deviates from the common practice of using pesticides and chemical fertilizers. They will be able to earn more by means of organic farming that is why, we are teaching them how to use the organic technology,” said Bishop Pabillo over Radio Veritas. Organic vegetable production is part of the program of the AVT-Social Action Center Justice, Peace, and Development, Inc. that is being implemented by the Diversified Integrated Organic Farm and Training Center. Bishop Pabillo shared that the project of the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay is also being supported by the Diocese of Cubao which has sent assistance for the setting up of facilities for farm schools as well as to help introduce organic farming to the different parishes under the jurisdiction of the apostolic vicariate. “We would like to thank the Diocese of Cubao for their assistance which will help us teach more people on the benefits of organic vegetable farming production not only as a means of livelihood but also to highlight its benefits on health and the environment,” the Church leader said. In 2005, the importance of organic farming was recognized through Republic Act 10068 or the Promotion and Development of Organic Agriculture in the Philippines. This was followed by the Organic Agriculture Act of 2008 that promotes organic agriculture in the country. (Christina Hermoso)