BUTUAN CITY – “We gained valuable knowledge from the training, especially on the proper application of fertilizers and the use of modern technologies in farming,” shared Eliza A. Evangelista of Baan KM3, Butuan City, after participating in the first batch of 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 PhilRice Agusan Experiment Station on May 20–22, 2026 at Golden Tara Hall, ATI-RTC XIII, Los Angeles, Butuan City.
Ms. Evangelista added that the knowledge and practical skills they acquired from the activity would greatly help farmers improve rice productivity and increase harvests in their respective communities.
The three-day training gathered thirty-two rice farmers representing various rice clusters from Butuan City and Cabadbaran City, including members of the Baan Integrated Farmers Association, Kahugpongan sa mga Mag-uuma alang sa Lamdag nga Kaugmaon (KAMALAKA), Inc., and Diversified Agribusiness Farmers Cooperative. The participants are beneficiaries of the Hybrid Rice Model Farm Project under the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office Caraga.
It aimed to equip rice farmers with science-based nutrient management strategies that can help improve rice productivity, reduce production costs, enhance soil health, and promote sustainable farming practices. Discussions focused on the principles and concepts of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), soil characterization, nutrient sufficiency during critical growth stages, and the use of decision-support tools in fertilizer management.
Mr. Kim Jurix Pandan Bacsarpa of DA-RFO Caraga discussed the overview of the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP), highlighting the current trends and developments in the rice industry. Meanwhile, Mr. Ernie Lopez Malazarte of ATI-RTC Caraga facilitated sessions on the principles and concepts of Integrated Nutrient Management and PalayCheck Key Check 5. Ms. Alona Tape and Mr. Jehru Magahud of PhilRice Agusan introduced nutrient decision-support tools such as the Minus-One Element Technique (MOET), Leaf Color Chart (LCC), and Rice Crop Manager Advisory Services (RCMAS).
Participants actively engaged in hands-on activities, including the establishment of a MOET setup and the actual reading and interpretation of LCC samples. These practical exercises helped farmers better understand proper nutrient application and fertilizer management based on crop needs and soil conditions.
The training also addressed the rising cost of fertilizers and encouraged participants to adopt efficient and science-based nutrient management practices to maximize farm productivity while minimizing unnecessary production expenses. Through the activity, participants gained a deeper appreciation of balanced fertilization using both organic and inorganic nutrient sources to sustain soil fertility and improve rice yields.
