The Agricultural Training Institute - Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted a comprehensive Training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Onion held at the ATI-CL, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija from March 3-6, 2025.
The program aimed to equip 34 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with essential knowledge and skills to combat pest and disease challenges in onion farming, ensuring a more sustainable and productive yield for farmers in the region.
Ms. Lily Dela Cruz, Agriculturist II, welcomed the participants, emphasizing the trainingโs importance in addressing the persistent threats posed by pests and diseases in onion cultivation. Dr. Dianne M. Lapuz, Media Production Specialist II of ATI-CL, provided an overview of the training, while Ms. Christine Joy L. Corpuz, Agriculturist II of the Department of Agriculture-Central Luzon (DA-CL), led the discussion on Insights into Pest and Disease Challenges in Central Luzon.
Key highlights of the training included presentations from experts such as Mr. Jerome M. Gumangan, Science Research Specialist II from DA-Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO III), who discussed Trend in Pest and Disease Occurrence in the recent years; Factors Limiting Effective Pest and Disease Management; Growth and Development Factors of Onion Affecting Pest and Disease Control; and Significance of IPM on Effective Pest and Disease Management.
Also, Ms. Rosalyn Fulgencio, Science Research Specialist I of DA-RFO III, discussed Major Onion Pests and Diseases and IPM along with Mr. Evergilio M. Aquino, Science Research Specialist II of DA-RFO III, who presented a comprehensive lecture on Effective and Responsible Chemical Use for Pest Control.
In addition, the training featured an Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AESA) at Mr. Darius Eugenioโs farm in Barangay Bagong Sikat, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija. The hands-on activity involved pest and disease identification, surveillance, Disease Assessment, and Processing. Participants also visited an IPM demonstration site at the KALASAG Multipurpose Cooperative, where best practices for sustainable onion farming were shared.
The event was attended by notable figures such as Mr. Ronaldo Angat, Assistant Chief of the Research for Development Division (R4DD) of DA-RFO III; and Ms. Marietta Agregado, Regional Crop Protection Center-Chief of DA- RFO III. They commended the participants' commitment to improving onion production and emphasized the importance of science-based approaches and community collaboration.
By the end of the training, 34 AEWs had successfully completed the program, reinforcing their capacity to support farmers in adopting efficient, sustainable farming techniques.
Moreover, Ms. Krizzell D. Galang, Training Specialist II / Project Officer, congratulated the participants and urged them to apply their newly acquired knowledge to enhance onion farming practices in their respective communities.
This training marks a significant step in strengthening the onion industry in Central Luzon, with AEWs playing a crucial role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and reducing crop losses due to pests and diseases.
