A group of independent banana growers in Davao region has committed themselves to science-based agriculture during a forum held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte last April 3.

Led by Faustino Salting, the banana growers organized themselves into a coalition and said that what is needed now to address the issue of food security and limited resources is utilize the benefits of science and technology in increasing the yield of food that is safe.

The best way to do it, he says, is for them to accept good agricultural practice (GAP) that goes with Science-based Agriculture for Farm Enhancement (SAFE).

Salting noted that "science-based agriculture is an international practice of producing safe and affordable produce efficiently year-round, with the help of products and practices that enhance the productivity and performance of farms, while maintaining the quality of the product until it reaches the consumer."

The forum, organized by Initiative for Farm Advocacy and Resource Management (IFARM), CropLife Philippines and Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA), was supported by the Davao del Norte provincial government.

Salting leads a group of approximately 3,000 banana growers, while Jose Daigdigan Sr. is at the helm of a network of 100 farmer-growers. The coalition has assigned Betty Francia to act as secretary.

Bobby Ramos, Juliet Ariete, Engr. Cicero G. Tiamzon, Dominador Encarnacion and Edmund Marcelo also backed SAFE.

Tiamzon is a Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) while Encarnacion is the provincial agriculturist of Davao del Norte.