Participants conduct seed testing, particularly the practicum on moisture content determination during the fourth day of the training.
BANGA, Aklan – ATI Region 6, in partnership with the Bureau of Plant Industry-National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS), conducted a Training Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification for Deputized and Designated Seed Inspectors at the ATI-RTC VI Training Hall, ASU Compound, last March 27-31, 2023. Thirty-two Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from different provinces and/or municipalities participated in the five-day intensive program.
The training course is in support of the second Key Program of the Rice Enhancement Competitiveness Fund (RCEF) identified as Rice Seed Development, Propagation, and Promotion. This key program aims to increase the adaption of certified seeds and integrated crop management through (1) Promotion and distribution of certified inbred rice seeds; (2) Mobilization and strengthening of local seed production; and (3) Support for variety development.
Among the activities done were lectures, workshops, and practicums. The topics discussed include the Rice Program Overview, Seed Reserve and Status of Rice Seed Production and Distribution; Mechanics, Policies, and Guidelines on Seed Certification for Inbred Rice Seed Production; Guidelines on the Accreditation of Seed Growers (process flow and filling-out of forms); the Role of Seed inspectors, Field Inspection and Roguing in Inbred Rice Field; Varietal Selection and Characteristics of the NSIC-approved inbred rice varieties (400-500 series) and the Top 5 Recommended Rice Varieties; Cultural Management Practices relative to the growth stages of the inbred rice plant; and, Harvest and Post-harvest Technology. The topics were delivered by the BPI-NSQCS Region VI and PhilRice-Negros Occidental.
Furthermore, the field visit (rouging practicum) was conducted at Carugdog, Lezo, Aklan, and the seed storage facility visit at Calangcang, Makato, Aklan. The seed and varietal purity practicum were done at the ATI-RTC VI Training Hall.
“In this training, I learned a lot of things including the role of seed inspectors and the policies and guidelines on seed certification. The hands-on activities helped me familiarize the various field operations that both seed growers and seed inspectors should perform to pass the certification. I also realized that becoming a seed inspector is not an easy job and that the role of seed inspectors is very important for a seed grower to pass the accreditation and certification,” said Ms. Cecil B. Borres, Agriculturist II of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Capiz.
As one of the major factors in the success of the RCEF-RESP goals, seed inspectors are required to be fully equipped with knowledge and skills to provide proper technical assistance to seed growers in the region.
