Consistent with the policy of the Department to improve and modernize the production and dispersal of planting materials to individual farmers or their duly accredited or recognized groups or associations, the Department shall, henceforth, encourage the use of containers or receptacles for plantable seedlings made from indigenous organic materials like coconut husk, coconut coir, coco peat, or other plant fibers.

Aside from the natural nutrients found in organic containers and their ability to absorb moisture and facilitate the growth of the plant's root system, the seedlings contained in these organic containers can be planted without removing the organic container, thus, reducing stress on the planting material or seedling.

Using organic container or receptacle for planting materials, avoid the use of seedling bags like plastic bags or "polybags" which are non-biodegradable materials that can harm the environment.

Therefore, in order to promote the use of indigenous organic materials as containers or receptacles for planting materials and thereby protect our environment, all agencies and offices of the Department, including its attached agencies involved in seedling acquisition and distribution shall encourage the use of biodegradable organic seedling containers or receptacles.

Accordingly, the Department shall give priority or preference to plantable seedlings and other planting materials contained in biodegradable organic receptacles or containers being offered to the Department, its offices and attached agencies for sale by accredited nurseries.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

Adopted: 20 Oct. 2000

(SGD.) EDGARDO J. ANGARA
Secretary