DA- PhilRice and its seven branch stations showcased modern rice technologies during its biggest series of technology demonstrations called PalaySikatan under the RCEF-Seed Program.
PalaySikatan bolstered collaborative partnerships among provincial and municipal local government units together with DA-RFOs in implementing RCEF activities in 53 provinces with 99 sites.
Agusan del Sur Vice Governor Samuel E. Tortor, who is new in rice farming, said “the technology demonstration educated me and increased my knowledge”. He encouraged his co-farmers to “participate and never hesitate to accept the challenge if chosen as a recipient of the program.”
Dr. Caesar Joventino M. Tado, Agusan branch director, stressed the need to use high-yielding rice varieties, good crop management practices, and machinery to lower production costs.
In San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Techno Demo officer Danny Lloyd Escañan told 70 farmers of the advantages of using new technologies, machines, and high-quality inbred rice seeds specifically NSIC Rc 160, 216, 480, 402, 442, and PSB Rc 82.
In Monkayo, Davao de Oro, farmer-cooperator Arnold B. Quizala testified that using high-quality seeds of a recommended variety plus the use of rice machinery reduced his stress and boosted his confidence in rice farming.
Quizala boasted harvesting more than 100 bags (60kg per bag) using PSB Rc 27 and NSIC Rc 402 in each of his 2-hectare rice field, and good crop stand using a mechanical transplanter.
In Bulan, Sorsogon, Bicol branch Director Dr. Victoria C. Lapitan with Municipal Agricuture Officer Marietta Bayica, equipped farmers with science-based knowledge on how to manage common insect pests in the area such as stem borer, rice bug, and tungro disease in a Kapihan sa PalaySikatan activity.(PMC Gabato)
