After previous training on the production of high-quality inbred rice and seeds and farm mechanization, 32 farmer-trainers completed their training in pest and nutrient management, Nov. 14-18.
Conducted under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Rice Extension Services Program in Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, the training included three modules, which also trained them on effectively sharing and facilitating learning to fellow farmers.
“I started this training with limited knowledge in pest and nutrient management, but this week has been enlightening and reminded me of my purpose—to share what I learned with other farmers,” said Janette Fernando of the Valmonte Fernando Farm in Nueva Ecija.
“This past week has been challenging. Thanks to our field activities in pest, weed, and disease collection and identification, which helped me understand farming better, ” said Emmanuel Bundoc, architect by profession and farmer by choice.
Another training in pest and nutrient management is currently being until Dec. 2 as part of the program’s continuous efforts to hone farmers skills and knowledge so they can increase their income.
The RCEF Rice Extension Services Program is funded under the Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), which aims to be competitive amidst trade liberalization. RTL allocates a P10 billion fund every year to provide farmers with free certified inbred seeds, farm machineries, and training on rice production, high-quality seed production, and machine use. Rice farmers also receive loan assistance from the program.
