KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--Kauswagan, a once war-torn town in Mindanao, has undergone an extraordinary metamorphosis, emerging as a global leader in organic agriculture.

The town, once marred by conflict during former President Joseph Estrada's all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in 2000, is now a shining example of peace and prosperity.

This remarkable turnaround is largely attributed to the efforts of former combatants who have taken up pivotal roles in ensuring a harmonious and thriving Kauswagan through the "From Arms to Farms" program of the local government.

The 5th-class municipality has come a long way from its war-torn past as it stands proud as the host of the prestigious 6th Organic Asia Congress on June 4 to 10.

It was a gathering of 1,300 local and foreign delegates from 32 countries and areas such as Iran, India, South Korea, China, Mongolia, Tunisia, and Vietnam, among others, that witnessed the transformation taking place in this once-devastated area. Participants include distinguished experts, policymakers, and passionate individuals committed to organic agriculture.

It provided a remarkable platform for Kauswagan to showcase its remarkable journey and share valuable insights with the international community.

Lasting peace, hunger alleviation, and sustainable development

Kauswagan Mayor Rommel Arnado expressed profound gratitude for the delegates' interest in his hometown and credited the transformative "From Arms to Farms" program for the progress achieved thus far.

"We have also put Kauswagan on the global map as we have drawn the attention of the world through our success in alleviating hunger and peacebuilding. I truly believed that our decision to unify and come together helped us achieve our goals of lasting peace in Kauswagan," he said.

Among the distinguished guests at the event was Senator Mark Villar, who commended the passionate individuals and organizations dedicated to organic agriculture.

"This gathering of passionate individuals and organizations dedicated to the cause of organic agriculture is proof of our shared purpose towards building a better country, one that is rooted in sustainability, full security, and ultimately peace," he said.

Food security for conflict prevention

Secretary Maria Belen Acosta, chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority, emphasized the importance of ensuring a sufficient food supply as a means to prevent conflict and violence.

"We acknowledge that when people have enough to eat, they are less likely to engage in conflict or resort to violence to meet their basic needs.  This is why a gathering of experts, policymakers, and stakeholders like this is important in achieving this one basic goal," she said.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Undersecretary Zamzamin Ampatuan urged local government units to prioritize food security and collaborate with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to achieve national self-sufficiency in food production.

"Local government units (LGUs) play a crucial role in promoting food security, and we earnestly urge their support in assisting the Department of Agriculture (DA) and our President in this important endeavor. All LGUs should work hand-in-hand with the DA to ensure that our country attains self-sufficiency, where food is accessible, affordable, and available to all," he said.

Nurturing sustainability

The  Congress covered a wide range of topics related to organic agriculture, including climate change, innovation, sustainable fisheries, organic rice production, social inclusion, and rural revitalization.

The event served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative discussions, facilitating the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions to address pressing agricultural and developmental challenges.

The "From Arms to Farms" coffee table book was also launched, which vividly portrays the journey of Kauswagan's transformation through the lens of organic agriculture.

It showcases 300 photographs and stories of individuals and communities who have experienced positive change and offers inspiration for other areas seeking to embark on similar paths to peace and prosperity.

During the Congress, delegates were treated to cultural performances, farm tours, and an agri-aqua fair, providing a holistic experience that immersed participants in the local culture, showcased sustainable farming practices, and facilitated networking and knowledge exchange.

Kauswagan's incredible story serves as a testament to the transformative power of organic agriculture in rebuilding lives, fostering sustainable development, and creating a peaceful and prosperous future. The municipality's commitment to unity, innovation, and collaboration has not only changed its own destiny but has also inspired others to strive for a better world. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)