CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) — The Sangguniang Bayan of San Mateo, Isabela, has passed an ordinance supporting the Philippine Good Agricultural Practice (PhilGAP) and the commercialization of GAP-approved rice.
The move, introduced by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice)-Isabela, marks the first time a local government unit (LGU) in the country has adopted both PhilGAP and GAPproved rice.
Enacted recently, Sangguniang Bayan Ordinance No. 2025-917 aims to promote agro-entrepreneurship among farmer cooperatives by supporting GAP-approved rice and other PhilGAP-certified products.
San Mateo Mayor Gregorio Pua said the ordinance encourages the local government and private businesses to prioritize procuring certified products from San Mateo farmers and cooperatives, offering incentives for adopters.
The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) – Isabela and its partners had previously approached the San Mateo LGU to request the adoption of PhilGAP and the commercialization of GAP-approved rice.
Pua said the local council’s approval of the initiative underscores the community’s commitment to enhancing agricultural practices and local economic growth.
Pua expressed strong support for the ordinance, noting that the town, which is primarily engaged in rice farming, stands to benefit greatly from the promotion of PhilGAP.
He highlighted that the initiative would not only aid farmers but also contribute to the overall economic development of San Mateo and improve the quality of life for its residents.
The enactment of the ordinance aligns with the LGU’s mission to strengthen the agricultural sector and ensure the continued growth of the local economy through sustainable and innovative farming practices. (MGE/PIA Isabela)
