What began as a simple trip to Camp Nelson Gerona in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia, unexpectedly turned into a memorable encounter with organic farming in Negros Occidental. Our group had traveled there to help organize a medical mission, and naturally, we expected to spend the day serving the community before heading back to Bacolod City. Little did I know that, just a few meters away from the famous Mambukal Resort, another experience was quietly waiting to unfold.
After the medical mission wrapped up, my companions casually mentioned that fresh papayas and other vegetables were being sold inside the camp. As someone who enjoys bringing home local produce whenever I travel, I immediately became curious. Without wasting time, I walked over to the officer whom everyone said was in charge of the harvest.
Walking Into an Organic Farming Garden
When I reached him, he greeted me warmly and explained that someone first needed to harvest the vegetables I wanted to buy. Since we had a little time to spare, we stayed and chatted while waiting. The relaxed conversation soon drifted toward the vegetables themselves. Naturally, we asked where they were growing all this produce.
With a smile, the officer pointed toward a gentle slope behind the building where we were standing. From where we were, the greenery looked like an ordinary patch of land. However, he then offered to take us there so we could see the gardens for ourselves. We immediately accepted.
The short walk felt like stepping into a hidden corner of the camp. As we climbed the slope, neat rows of vegetables slowly came into view. Healthy eggplants hung heavily from sturdy plants, while okra stood upright beneath broad green leaves. Long string beans dangled from climbing vines, and patches of kangkong and alugbati spread vibrantly across the garden. Nearby, bitter gourds clung to trellises, and papaya trees stood proudly with their large fruits ripening under the warm Negros sun.
The vegetables looked exceptionally fresh. Their rich green colors, crisp leaves, and vigorous growth reflected the care invested in every plot. There was something deeply satisfying about seeing food growing naturally in the open air rather than simply picking it up from a supermarket shelf. More importantly, witnessing where the vegetables came from created a stronger appreciation for the people who cultivated them.
Learning About Integrated Organic Farming
As we continued talking, the officer shared that Camp Nelson Gerona was preparing to participate in the upcoming 9th Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival, scheduled for November 19 to 23, 2014. The timing immediately caught my attention because I was one of the event’s social media partners. Upon hearing this, he proudly explained that the camp practices an integrated organic farming system. Because of this approach, the vegetables they harvest are grown without synthetic chemical inputs, making them both fresh and naturally produced.
Hearing that made every vegetable in front of us even more meaningful. Instead of simply purchasing produce, I felt that I was supporting farmers who believed in sustainable agriculture and healthier food production. Their commitment demonstrated that organic farming is not only good for consumers but also beneficial for the environment and future generations.
Bringing Home Fresh Organic Vegetables
Soon, the freshly harvested vegetables arrived. I happily brought home a whole papaya along with eggplants, okra, alugbati, kangkong, string beans, and bitter gourd. Everything had been picked just moments before, and you could almost smell the freshness. Before leaving, I also bought several pieces of cooked corn, which made a delicious snack for the trip home.
The following day, my mother prepared a comforting pot of laswa, the beloved Ilonggo vegetable soup. As the vegetables simmered together, the kitchen filled with a clean, earthy aroma that reminded me of the garden where they had been harvested. Every spoonful tasted wonderfully fresh, and knowing exactly where the ingredients came from somehow made the meal even more satisfying.
Looking Forward to the Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival
That unexpected visit to Camp Nelson Gerona reminded me that meaningful travel experiences often happen when we least expect them. Sometimes, all it takes is a casual conversation and a willingness to explore beyond the obvious. Instead of simply completing our medical mission and going home, we discovered a thriving example of organic farming that quietly supports healthier communities in Negros Occidental.
Inspired by the experience, I looked forward to visiting the 9th Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival at the Capitol Grounds in Bacolod City later that week. After seeing where these chemical-free vegetables were grown, I knew I wanted to discover even more organic products and continue supporting the hardworking farmers who make them possible.
Facebook Pages:
Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival
https://www.facebook.com/organicfarmersfestival/
Organic na Negros! Organic Producers and Retailers Association (ONOPRA)
https://www.facebook.com/organicnanegros/
9th Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival Event Page
https://www.facebook.com/events/695679293851156/
Twitter
https://twitter.com/OrganicNegros/
Google+
https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/115181550702850959106/115181550702850959106/
YouTube Channels
Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/negrosorganicfarmers
OrganicNaNegros YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/OrganicNaNegros
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