The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) successfully conducted two Technical Briefings on Rice Crop Manager (RCM) in Mallig and Gamu, Isabela, on April 2 and 3, 2025, aimed at strengthening farmers' capacity to optimize rice production through site-specific nutrient management.
On April 2, the briefing took place in Mallig, where 50 farmers attended. The session opened with a welcome message from Mr. Edwin DC Domingo, Municipal Agriculturist, who highlighted the importance of RCM in supporting farming decisions and improving productivity. Mr. Mark Frandana, a Training of Trainers (TOT) graduate on RCM, facilitated the technical discussion. He provided a comprehensive demonstration on how to use and operate the RCM tool, guiding the farmers in generating RCM-based recommendations tailored to their respective rice fields. By the end of the session, all participants successfully obtained personalized recommendations to implement in the upcoming wet season for improved crop and nutrient management.
On April 3, the briefing moved to Brgy. Mabini, Gamu, with 50 more participants, representing four different farmer associations. Mr. Reymel B. Linda, General Manager of Bango A Langa ti Mannalon Agriculture Cooperative and Municipal Agriculture and Fishery Officer of Gamu, Isabela, welcomed the participants and emphasized how the knowledge gained would directly benefit them in the efficient application of fertilizers. Mr. Roldan Robles, another TOT graduate on RCM, led the technical session, providing a detailed demonstration on how to generate personalized recommendations using RCM based on specific field conditions. With the help of DA-Cagayan Valley Research Center staff, all 50 farmers generated recommendations to enhance their crop yield and nutrient management for the wet season.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Vladimir B. Caliguiran, OIC-Assistant Center Director/ Chief, Information Services Section, emphasized the significance of RCM as one of the valuable digital tools available to farmers, helping them identify the specific nutrient requirements of their fields. He reinforced that RCM contributes to efficient and sustainable rice production.
The sessions were well-received, with farmers expressing their appreciation for the practical applications they gained. They recognized RCM as an essential decision-support tool that enhances the precision of fertilizer application and promotes more sustainable farming practices. Both briefings were highly successful, equipping farmers with the tools necessary for informed decision-making and improved rice farming practices.
