LOS BAÑOS, Laguna – Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON, in collaboration with the Bureau of Plant Industry - National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS) CALABARZON, concluded a three-day training program entitled “Refresher Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification for Deputized and Designated Seed Inspectors” at the Boy Scouts of the Philippines - BP International Makiling, June 13.
Sixteen (16) agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and BPI-NSQCS staff from Region IV-A participated in the training and will continuously perform their roles as seed inspectors in their areas of assignment.
The training course was held from June 11 to 13, 2024, through the facilitation of the Partnerships and Accreditation Section (PAS) of ATI CALABARZON, aiming at enhancing the participants’ knowledge and skills in inbred rice seed production and the seed certification process, specifically as deputized and designated seed inspectors in the region.
Included in the training were practicum sessions and interactive lecture discussions. Meanwhile, topics covered were Mechanics, Policies and Guidelines on Seed Grower Accreditation and Seed Certification for Inbred Rice Seed Production; Varietal Selection, Characteristics of the NSIC approved Inbred Rice Varieties (400-500 series); Top Five Recommended Rice Varieties for RCEF; Seed Sampling and Seed Sample Preparation; Seed Testing Methods; Procedures and Seed Standards; Moisture Content Determination; Physical Purity; Germination Test; and Varietal Purity Test.
During the closing program, Ms. Clarise M. Lomibao from BPI-NSQCS CALABARZON shared her experience in the training, “As a seed inspector, it is very crucial to be knowledgeable about rice morphological characteristics to prevent future contamination or mixture of off-types because during preliminary to final inspection, they have the ability to advise the seed growers to remove other varieties to ensure and maintain the genetic identity and purity, thereby ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds”.
Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, Center Director of ATI CALABARZON, also graced the closing program.
This training course was accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) wherein participants received 11 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.
News by: Mary Grace Leidia
