PILA, Laguna — To promote the safe and responsible use of farm inputs and strengthen the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for rice,, the DA-Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON, initiated a rice cluster training titled “Advancing Knowledge on Product Stewardship and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Rice” held from June 16-20, 2025 at NIA IV-A Training Hall in Pila, Laguna.
Conducted in collaboration with the DA-Regional Field Office CALABARZON and the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) IV, the training brought together 25 rice farmers from the provinces of Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon.
The training aimed to enhance farmers’ knowledge and skills in the proper and safe use of crop protection products and inputs. It also promoted the implementation of GAP to ensure higher rice productivity, protect farmers’ health, and sustain environmental safety.
Rodel Malinay of Lian, Batangas expressed his appreciation for the training and emphasized its significance: “Sa training na ito, nalaman po natin ang iba't ibang klase ng pesticides at kung paano sila gamitin nang ligtas. Sa Good Agricultural Practices, nalaman po natin kung paano ipatupad mag-produce ng GAP-certified crops na ipapakain natin hindi lamang sa ating sariling pamilya kundi sa sambayanang Pilipino. Ito pong aking mga natutunan ay aking babaunin upang aking maibahagi sa kapwa ko farmer, para sa ikaliligtas at ikalulusog ng ating sambayanan.”
Ms. Maricon Amparo and Ms. Pamela Perez of DA-RFO CALABARZON, along with Ms. Suzettie Alcaide from Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) IV, served as resource persons for the training. Topics included proper handling of farm chemicals, farm safety practices, and modern and sustainable farming techniques.
Through this training, the participants are now better equipped to produce safer, higher-quality rice while promoting health and sustainable farming practices in the region.
News by: Rabi Mendoza
