Two rice farmers from opposite sides—the northern and central part of the country—are proving that learning new techniques can transform not just their harvests but their lives.
Fredric B. de Guzman, 45, from Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, used to rely on farming practices handed down through generations. Like many farmers, he believed that crowding more seeds in a small seedbed meant better yields. But that changed in 2024, when he attended a short course on pest and nutrient management and joined a Farmer Field School (FFS) on the PalayCheck System under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Extension Program.
“The training opened my eyes, I realized there was a better way to do things,” he shared.
With support from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, de Guzman learned how to prepare seedbeds properly, planting more efficiently, and manage water using the alternate wetting and drying method.
From harvesting 5t/ha, he now gets 7t/ha. His income also doubled, from P10,000 to P20,000/ha.
“Before, I just relied on previous experience. Now, I farm with knowledge and the results speak for themselves,” he added.
Over in Cabatuan, Iloilo, Efren A. Manalo, 60, faced a different challenge—lack of rain and no access to machines.
“Our farming was trial and error, we didn’t have machines. We worked by hand, and hoped for the best,” he said.
Things changed in 2022 when he joined a PalayCheck training at PhilRice Negros. He learned how to use pesticide properly, adopt modern techniques, and connect with groups that lend machines like the precision seeder.
“Now, I only spray when needed and save on inputs. And with machines, I don’t get as tired, and I can finish work faster,” he said.
Manalo’s yield rose from 3.8 to 5.3t/ha. Even better, he cut costs by about 30%, saving P10,000.
“Learning really changed the way I farm. I’m glad I took that step,” Manalo said with a smile.
