Transitioning to organic farming requires high upfront costs and would have lower yields in its initial phase compared to conventional farming. However, over time, increase in productivity from organic practices would result in favorable returns. The use of improved crop varieties have much lower production costs and would allow higher yields despite drastic changes in climate, increasing profitability of the farm [1].

The establishment of Climate-resiliency Field Schools (CrFS) is a good example of capacity building for the community through a grassroots approach which is essential in transitioning to organic farming. The CrFS conduct seminars on climate-smart farming including practical skills application and demonstration farms. This approach has proven to be effective as six municipalities in three provinces in Mindanao have implemented practices centered on sustainability and climate mitigation and adaptation [2].

Organic farming is not widely practiced due to the high initial cost, low demand for organic produce, lack of access to markets for consumer exposure, low standards for produce quality, and underdeveloped certification schemes. However, if the local government facilitates the adoption of organic farming by partnering with private entities and NGOs, and providing incentives and subsidies, more farmers would be open to learning more about organic farming and transition to climate smart practices. Networks and cooperatives such as Numo Organic Farmer Association and Organika Foods provide an avenue to share knowledge and initiate discussions between smallholder farmers. These groups allow for better representation of the farmers at the city/municipal and provincial level [1].

The use of climate resilient crop varieties would allow the conservation of water resources as well as decrease the amount of fertilizers used for crop management. Utilization of this method reduces the possibility of soil degradation and contamination, thereby maintaining the soil quality. It could also increase soil productivity due to the continued use of the land all year-round, improving soil fertility and water absorption.