Thirty-six Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from different municipalities of the Cagayan Valley region were trained on PalayCheck System at the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02), Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela,  on  August 12-16, 2024.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes on PalayCheck System. The training program was also registered under the Continuing Professional Development Accreditation System.

Participants engaged in lectures and discussions on various topics, including the Regional Rice Industry Situation, the PalayCheck System, Rice Morphology, Growth Stages and Phases, and updates on Rice Pests and Diseases. Special topics such as Farm Machinery Operation and Safety, and ICT Tools and Resources for Agriculture.

Ms. Catherine V. Campo, AEW from LGU Dupax Del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya  said that the training helped her to familiarized the process of management and rice production. “I have learned and more familiarized with rice production, from the beginning of the production with different management areas up to postharvest management. Through PalayCheck System we can attain high yield and as AEW I learned new knowledge for me to disseminate to our local farmers as well as to my co- workers,” she said.

Mr. Emerson L. Valles, an AEW from LGU Cabarroguis, Quirino also added that he gained knowledge, principles and concepts of Key Checks. "I’ve learned a lot of knowledge and technology that is very valuable on my present work most specially the PalayCheck System. First the 4 principles and even its concepts, also the 9 Key Checks that can help to improve rice production. I appreciate the service that ATI-RTC gave to us, thank you very much,’’ Valles said.

These AEWs have been empowered to lead and facilitate Farmers' Field Schools and offer other extension services to improve rice production in their respective areas.

According to DA-PhilRice, PalayCheck is a dynamic rice crop management system that presents the best key technology and management practices as Key Checks; compares farmer practices with the best practices; and learns through farmers’ discussion group to sustain improvement in productivity, profitability, and environment safety. It also focuses on sharing, examining, and learning the best farming practices.