LOS ANGELES, Butuan City – “The integration of organic and inorganic nutrient management practices has a greater impact on rice production, and this training helped us recognize areas where our previous practices needed improvement. The new technologies introduced, particularly the Minus-One Element Technique (MOET) and the Leaf Color Chart (LCC), will be valuable tools in managing our crops. We are grateful to the resource persons for generously sharing their expertise and guiding us toward better farming practices and improved yields.”
This is a statement from Roger Villegas of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, one of the participants who captured the key takeaway from the Training on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) for Rice Production conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII in partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Agusan Experiment Station on June 2–4, 2026.
The training was attended by 26 rice farmers representing two rice clusters from Agusan del Sur, particularly from the municipalities of Sta. Josefa and Prosperidad. It aimed to strengthen participants’ knowledge and skills in applying science-based nutrient management strategies that improve rice productivity, enhance soil health, and promote sustainable farming practices.
The training featured discussions led by experts from partner agencies. Ms. Sweet Kate L. Ebueza of the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office XIII introduced the current status, trends, and development directions of the rice industry through the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP). She also discussed the principles of Integrated Nutrient Management and emphasized the importance of balancing organic and inorganic nutrient sources to sustain productivity while maintaining soil fertility.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ernie Malazarte of ATI-RTC XIII shared his expertise on nutrient management strategies for rice production. He introduced participants to key nutrient decision-support tools such as the Minus-One Element Technique (MOET), Leaf Color Chart (LCC), and the Rice Crop Manager Advisory Service (RCMAS). These technologies enable farmers to identify nutrient deficiencies, determine appropriate fertilizer requirements, and make informed nutrient management decisions based on actual crop conditions.
Also, Mr. John Carlo Rasonabe of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) discussed proper soil characterization and soil sampling procedures. He highlighted the importance of understanding soil conditions as the foundation for developing balanced fertilization programs and achieving optimum crop growth.
Participants engaged on hands-on exercises involving the establishment of MOET setups, actual reading and interpretation of LCC results, and discussions on nutrient sufficiency during critical growth stages of rice which enabled the farmers to translate scientific concepts into practical farm management decisions.
The training encouraged participants to reassess traditional fertilizer management practices and adopt more efficient, evidence-based approaches. Through interactive discussions and field-based learning activities, farmers gained a deeper appreciation of the role of nutrient management in improving yields, reducing production costs, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of rice farming systems.
