TANTANGAN, South Cotabato – On June 27, 2024, the fourth day of the “Basic Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification” brought twenty-one seed growers from Region XII and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) into the fields for hands-on training. Participants took part in field inspections and learned the technique of rouging, which involves removing invasive plants that could hinder the growth of cultivated rice, at the rice fields of Brgy. Cabuling, Tantangan, South Cotabato, under the guidance of Ms. Marjie D. Lastimoso, Agriculturist II of BPI-NSQCS, along with RCEF staff.

As part of the training, the participants visited the Binhi-an ng Timog Kutabato Multipurpose Agricultural Cooperative (BiNTiKuMPAC) in Brgy. Dajay, Surallah, where board member Mr. Leon Palma, an experienced seed grower, led them on a tour of the facility. Mr. Palma shared insights into effective seed-growing practices and showcased the cooperative’s operations.

Ms. Lastimoso then provided a lecture on seed sampling and testing, explaining sample preparation, tagging, and laboratory standards. Participants learned about various seed testing methods and procedures critical to maintaining high seed quality, further practicing germination tests, moisture content analysis, and seedling classification.

This immersive day was a key milestone for the trainees, helping them gain practical skills essential to enhancing rice seed production standards, fostering sustainability, and strengthening regional agricultural practices.