SAN JOSE, Province of Dinagat Islands - To help rice farmers improve productivity while making better use of fertilizers, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII successfully conducted the third batch of the Training on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) for Rice Production on June 23–25, 2026 at Barangay Sta. Cruz.
The three-day training was participated by 26 rice farmers from the municipalities of Libjo, San Jose, Dinagat, Loreto, and Cagdianao, equipping them with practical, science-based approaches to nutrient management that can increase yields while reducing unnecessary production costs.
Participants deepened their understanding of the principles of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and learned how balanced, site-specific fertilizer application contributes to healthier soils, improved crop growth, and more sustainable rice farming.
Resource persons from partner agencies who shared the latest technologies and decision-support tools for rice production. Dianna G. Pacaldo, Agriculturist II from the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office Caraga (DA-RFO Caraga), discussed the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP) and provided updates on the current status and direction of the rice industry.
Moreover, Caryl S. Agting, Science Research Specialist II, and Alona P. Tape, Science Research Specialist I, both from the PhilRice Agusan Experiment Station, guided participants through the key concepts of INM and introduced several nutrient decision-support technologies, including the PalayCheck System Key Check 5, Minus-One Element Technique (MOET), Leaf Color Chart (LCC), and Rice Crop Manager Advisory Services (RCMAS).
The participants were able to experience hands-on MOET demonstration, where they learned how to establish and interpret nutrient deficiency tests. This practical activity enabled farmers to make informed fertilizer recommendations based on the actual nutrient needs of their rice fields rather than relying solely on traditional practices. They also explored the proper use of the Leaf Color Chart (LCC) to determine the right timing for nitrogen application and became familiar with digital decision-support tools that can help optimize fertilizer management throughout the cropping season.
Reflecting on the training, participant Ronie Beronguis of Libjo, Dinagat Islands shared that the activity helped him better understand the importance of maintaining balanced soil nutrients. He noted that the training corrected common misconceptions about choosing between organic and inorganic fertilizers, emphasizing that proper and balanced application is the key to achieving higher yields. He added that the knowledge gained will help them make more informed decisions in managing their rice farms.
