Tue, 06/10/2025 - 10:55

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In order to strengthen the availability of high-quality planting materials in Cagayan Valley, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) conducted a Training on Nursery Establishment, Management, and Accreditation from May 26–28, 2025 at ATI-RTC 02, Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela.

The three-day training aimed to develop 30 participants composed of DA personnel, Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), and farmer-leaders from multiple municipalities in Region 2. OIC-Assistant Center Director Vladimir B. Caliguiran, during his opening message, point out the need to increase the number of accredited nurseries in the region, with currently only one officially recognized.

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The training featured comprehensive lectures and hands-on learning sessions facilitated by experts from the Bureau of Plant Industry–National Seed Quality Control Services (NSQCS) 02, Department of Agriculture–Nueva Vizcaya Experiment Station (DA-NVES), and Department of Budget and Management Region 02. Topics discussed included nursery accreditation guidelines, certification of mother trees, nursery management practices, sexual and asexual propagation, seed germination methods, scion grove establishment, and PhilGEPS registration procedures. These activities were designed to equip participants with the technical knowledge and protocols required for establishing and operating plant nurseries.

Most highlight of the training was the practical session on scion cutting, grafting, and budding, facilitated by Mr. Valeriano T. Corales. Participants were able to perform these techniques under expert supervision. They also visited De Ocampo’s Farm in Naguilian, Isabela, so they can observe actual nursery operations and best practices in fruit tree propagation, which gives real-world applications of the concepts they had learned in class.

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Participants showed their appreciation for the training, describing it as timely, engaging, and essential for their work. Many noted significant knowledge gained, most importantly in the areas of nursery accreditation and propagation techniques. All 30 participants passed the post-test, showing marked progress from their pre-test scores. The training wrapped up with words of encouragement from Senior Agriculturist Maurieann M. Turingan, who encourage the participants to apply their learnings in their communities and support the accreditation of local nurseries, contributing to the region’s long-term agricultural sustainability.

By: Zah Alfonso

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