The public sector is ensuring enough supply of rice seeds amidst pandemic through a series of training conducted in hybrid rice-producing regions.
Dr. Fidel M. Ramos, senior science research specialist of the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) in Isabela, said the activities complement the DA’s Hybrid Rice Program.
Currently, four batches with 150 seed growers are trained in Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Cagayan, and Kalinga from June to October 2021.
Seven learning sites were also established in San Manuel and Roxas, Isabela; Villa Verde, Nueva Vizcaya; Solana and Ballesteros, Cagayan; and Tabuk City, Kalinga.
In the learning sites, trainees are educated on seed sowing, layouting of R-line, transplanting A-line, pest monitoring, nutrient management, and primordial monitoring. Mestizo 1, SL 20, and SL 8 are showcased in the learning sites.
The Bureau of Plant Industry, Agricultural Training Institute, and PhilRice of DA spearhead the training courses.
