Davao City– To enhance nutrient management practices and boost crop productivity, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI) participated in the three-day Hands-on Seminar and Workshop on Nutrient Expert for Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) on Maize and Cassava, conducted by the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office XI in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on February 19-21, 2025, at World Palace Hotel.
The workshop aimed to promote the adoption of the SSNM-Nutrient Expert (SSNM-NE) software among local agricultural experts and corn and cassava farmers in the Davao Region. This decision-support tool helps optimize fertilizer use through science-based recommendations, aligning with the 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles—right type, right rate, right time, and right placement. The initiative seeks to improve farm productivity, maintain soil health, and reduce environmental impact.
DA Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Zabdiel L. Zacarias emphasized the significance of the workshop, urging participants to apply the knowledge gained in practical farming applications for corn and cassava.
Experts from the UPLB-Institute of Plant Breeding Mr. Jesse C. Descalsota and Mr. Patrick Dave DC Lapitan, led discussions on SSNM and the Nutrient Expert® technology. They provided insights into soil-based fertilizer recommendations and conducted hands-on training on the software’s application, allowing participants to generate site-specific recommendations.
The workshop also fostered collaboration among government agencies, research institutions, and agricultural extension workers (AEWs), strengthening efforts to modernize and sustain the corn and cassava industries in the Davao Region.
Representing ATI-RTC XI were Mr. Richel E. Zamora, Training Specialist II, and Ms. Ruby Jane P. Bentiroso, Information Officer II, alongside AEWs from Davao City, Digos City, and New Corella. Their participation underscores the commitment to advancing sustainable farming and food security in the region.
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Contributor: Ruby Jane P. Bentiroso
