Farmers in remote areas of Isabela and Abra reported higher yields after integrating  modern rice-farming apps in their production activities through the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute’s short course on pest and nutrient management (PNM) under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Rice Extension Services Program (RCEF RESP).  The training focused on managing two of the most critical factors that diminish rice production: pest damage and improper fertilizer use. The Institute introduced […]

NSIC Rc 222 continues to be the preferred inbred rice variety among farmers in Cagayan and Isabela, citing its high yield potential, resilience, and consistent performance across seasons. In Iguig, Cagayan, Richmon D. Lorenzo harvested 9.5t/ha from his 1-ha farm during the 2024 wet season, nearly doubling his previous yield.  “Farming is challenging, but I made it because of Rc 222,” said Lorenzo, who was recognized as one of his […]

After nearly 11 years at sea, Engracio G. Tupaz, 57, has transitioned to rice farming, achieving a net income of over PhP100,000 a hectare from his 2.3-ha farm.  Returning to the Philippines in 2012, Tupaz’s agricultural journey has not only sustained his livelihood but also funded his three children’s college education. Initially lacking expertise in rice farming, Tupaz joined the PalaySikatan technology demonstration under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) […]

DA-PhilRice Isabela joins the celebration of National Women’s Month with the 2024 theme “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan!” The advocacy also aligns with the theme created for 2023-2028 of “WE for gender equality and inclusive society.” Staffers of the station wore violet garments which symbolize feminism, empowerment, and social inclusivity. We acknowledge women’s values, norms, and vital contributions to societal development, including men’s support to empower […]

Seed growers in Burgos, Isabela have been supplying enough certified seeds to the municipality through the assistance of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program.   Fenora G. Martinez, Burgos OIC-municipal agriculturist, said that unlike before, the town no longer worries about farmers’ access to certified inbred seeds, which studies show can increase yield by 10% or more. Certified seeds are relatively pure, have fewer weed seeds, free from visible […]

To further the advocacy to end violence against women and their children (VAWC), an awareness orientation on VAWC and The Safe Spaces Act was held today at the station. Police Corporal Leanne Jade Ranario of PNP- San Mateo discussed the Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-VAWC Act of 2009, its salient features, who can report and file a protection order, and the basic concepts of Safe Spaces Act or Bawal […]

To spread awareness and join the campaign to end violence against women and their children (VAWC), DA- PhilRice Isabela staffers wear orange to signify support for the cause. Orange is the official color of the 18-day campaign, and it symbolizes hope for a future free of violence for all.

Kicking off the Violence Against Women and their Children Campaign with a mission to cultivate change and promote a culture of respect and equality, the station wore orange during its flag ceremony to signal the start of the 18-day campaign. The campaign is observed annually from November 25 to December 12 as mandated by Proclamation No. 1172 s. 2006. Let’s sow the seeds of awareness and harvest a future free […]

PhilRice Isabela has conducted a refresher training course for graduates of the Training of Trainers program under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Rice Extension Services Program (RCEF RESP),  Nov. 15- 23.  Thirty trainers, consisting of facilitators from farm schools and State Colleges and Universities, finished the course at the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center II (ATI-RTC II) in San Mateo, Isabela.  Dr. Andres dela Cruz Jr., RCEF coordinator, underscored the […]

DA-PhilRice Isabela, in partnership with DA-Cagayan Valley Research Center (CVRC) and the Local Government Unit of Dupax Del Sur, observed International Day for Rural Women yesterday with women and men farmers of Dupax del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya. The municipality will host the next RiceBIS community with Saint Vincent Multipurpose Cooperative as the partner farmers organization. An array of rice food products like brown rice cookies, brown rice puff balls, and […]