Participants together with the training management team pose for a group photo after the completion of the training

CENTRAL VISAYAS. Last May 23 to 25, 2023,  some 19 agricultural extension workers from different LGUs in Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor attended a refresher course on inbred rice seed production and certification for seed inspectors. This was held at Ocean View Farm and Cottages in Olang, Maria, Siquijor.

The primary goal of this training is to evaluate the seed inspectors' capabilities in performing their functions and providing technical services to seed growers. The course aims to enable the participants to understand the guidelines, policies, and mechanics on seed certification for rice seed production and classify varietal selection and characteristics of the approved National Seed Industry Council varieties.

Furthermore, it allowed the participants to differentiate the insect pest management, integrated nutrient management, and integrated cultural management for rice seed production, describe harvest and post-harvest technology for rice seed production, demonstrate the seed testing procedures and standards, apply field inspection and rouging, seed sampling, bagging, and tagging, and employ the roles of seed inspectors.

The program concluded with feedback from the participants expressing their gratitude towards the agencies and personnel who supported the event. Francisco S. Yaeso, from Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, said, "Attending training is an opportunity for the employee to acquire knowledge, new ideas and upgrading of guidelines and policies. Thanks for upscaling my capacity to do my task in the rice industry."

Rosie S. Autentico, a seed inspector from DA-BES 7, Ubay, Bohol, added, "I was refreshed and was updated about the new technologies for rice production and our responsibilities as seed inspectors. Further, my knowledge on policies and guidelines on seed certification, seed sampling, and seed tagging was also refreshed."

Abrian A. Leonardo, from OPA-Siquijor, shared, "I am thankful that I am part of this training, this is a big help for me as a new seed coordinator as well as seed inspector because I can enhance my skills and knowledge to perform the role and function of being a seed inspector." Attending training and upgrading one's skills and knowledge is vital to providing quality service and performing both old and new responsibilities.