Coop pioneers in RiceBIS certification

THE Marasat-Dagupan Rice Business Innovations System (MarDag RiceBIS) Agriculture Coop. was the first farmers' group in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) to undergo the Philippine Good Agricultural Practices-Internal Control System (PhilGAP-ICS) Group Certification.

Ferdinand Cortez of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 2 (DA RFO-2) Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section said the milestone is a triumph for the cooperative, comprising 48 farmers cultivating 53.5361 hectares of rice fields.

Cortez said there were 10 representatives from the cooperative who successfully navigated the rigorous inspection phase, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality, safety and sustainability.

"This achievement will not only bolster the cooperative's credibility but also enhance its market appeal, attracting discerning consumers who prioritize quality, safety and sustainability," he said.

The DA RFO-2, through its Regulatory Division-GAP Unit, led by Division Chief Remedios dela Rosa and Regional GAP Focal Person Editha Cortina, conducted the inspection on Feb. 11-13, 2025.

This was in collaboration with the Bureau of Plant Industry-Plant Product Safety Services Division in Baguio City, DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute in Isabela and the local government of San Mateo, Isabela.

Cortez said that with this phase concluded, the PhilGAP Certification Committee will review the findings before final approval is granted by the BPI director.

As a participant in the RiceBIS community, supported by DA-PhilRice Isabela under the Rice Business Innovations System (RiceBIS) 2.0 and DA RFO 2 Rice Program, the MarDag RiceBIS Coop. has demonstrated its dedication to excellence.

Cortez pointed out that once certified, MarDag RiceBIS Coop. will set the standard for agricultural innovation and sustainability in Region 2.