Neither storms nor pest infestations stopped Iloilo and Negros Occidental rice farmers from continuing their learning journey under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed and Extension programs, as they pushed through with their PalaySikatan Harvest Festivals and PalayCheck Farmers’ Field School (FFS) Field Days despite unfavorable conditions.
In Brgy. Pajo, Pototan, Iloilo, over 90 farmer-partners endured heavy rains and strong southwest monsoon winds while participating in a short field tour and discussion. Their resilience was on full display as they shared insights gained from the season-long training.
“It’s just rainfall, we are used to it. What matters most is sharing what we learned in FFS, especially my favorite, the Agro-Ecological System Analysis (AESA). We must keep adopting modern technologies to boost our yield,” farmer-partner Marjie V. King said.
In Payao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, a severe stemborer infestation tested the resilience of farmers weeks before their field day. Still, more than 150 participants showed up to have their pest management practices and prepare for the next cropping season.
“I don’t think we can eliminate the stemborer, especially since our field preparation was delayed. But through FFS, I learned that synchronous planting and using resistant varieties can significantly reduce its damage,” Irene M. Moga, farmer-partner, explained.
Pototan Mayor Emmanuel I. Aranda affirmed the local government’s support for the initiative, saying, “Any means to support the needs of farmers will always be accommodated. If these programs can help improve their productivity, you can count on us as reliable partners.”
Meanwhile, in Brgy. Patlad, Dumangas, Iloilo, typhoon Opong may have caused a short delay, but it didn’t dampen the spirit of 89 farmer-partners who enthusiastically convened despite cancellation to share their FFS learnings and success stories. Vice Mayor Ronaldo R. Golez visited the venue to thank the farmers for their dedication despite the storm.
These convergence activities are part of government efforts to holistically address gaps in rice-farming communities. Local government units are offering financial, logistical, and technical assistance to help curb production costs and increase yields.
Other partners likewise expressed their support for the activity, including the Office of the 5th District Representative of Negros Occidental, DA-Regional Field Offices in Negros Island and Western Visayas, the Provincial Agriculture Offices of both provinces, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and the National Food Authority (NFA).
