BUGUIAS, Benguet – Mirriam L. Castog, owner of Den’z Farm and an active member of the Labayan Farmers Association located in Buguias, Benguet is among the growing number of highland farmers who have adopted Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) as a sustainable and responsible approach to farming.
Castog began her farming journey in 2015, initially employing traditional methods passed down through generations, methods that while tried and tested, often lacked consideration for sustainability and food safety. Like many others in the region, she relied on basic manual tools and the frequent use of chemical inputs without standardized application. However, in 2022, she made a significant shift in her agricultural journey when her one-hectare farm was officially certified as GAP compliant.
Her decision to transition was largely influenced by Alma Sisiit, a fellow farmer from Balili, Mankayan, who had already been certified under GAP. Encouraged by Sisiit’s experience and success, Castog committed herself to the process despite the many challenges that laid ahead.
“The initial phase was truly difficult,” Castog admitted. “There were numerous documents and requirements to fulfill. But once you learn to appreciate the process, everything begins to fall into place. With the assistance of the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, I was able to meet the requirements and complete the necessary documents and trainings.”
Prior to adopting GAP, farming was labor-intensive and often inefficient. Manual tools such as grab hoes were used for soil cultivation, and weeding was done by hand. Single-crop farming dominated her routine, and pesticide application was carried out without proper dosage, practices that posed both environmental and health risks.
Through GAP, Castog learned the importance of accurate fertilizer measurement, reduced pesticide use, and proper crop planning. These practices allowed her to diversify her farm, moving from monocropping to intercropping.
“Intercropping offers many advantages,” she explained. “It promotes better soil health, helps control pests and diseases naturally, and ensures economic resilience. If one crop fails or sells at a low price, the others may still provide adequate returns.”
She also acknowledged the value of support from government agencies, particularly the Department of Agriculture. The interventions she received enabled her to lower input costs, reduce manual labor, and ultimately increase her income.
Today, Castog markets her produce at the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center, and she continues to advocate for the adoption of GAP among her fellow farmers.
“I encourage others to take part in this advocacy. This is not just for personal gain, it benefits the entire community and ensures that we are producing safe, high-quality food for our consumers,” she expressed. By Leny D. Mendoza
