Participants and members of the training management team smile for a group photo after the Technical Briefing on Selected ICT Tools in Rice Production

CENTRAL VISAYAS. Rice is a staple food for many people around the world. In order to meet the increasing demand for this crop, farmers must constantly adapt to new technologies that can help improve their yields and reduce losses. In response to this demand, a Technical Briefing on Selected ICT Tools in Rice Production was conducted on June 21, 2023, at E.I. Suites, Poblacion, Siquijor, Siquijor, and on June 23, 2023, at Berachah Inland Resort & Recreation Center – Sto. Nino, Talibon, Bohol.

The aim of this technical briefing was to provide farmers and agricultural technicians with an understanding of the importance of basic ICT tools in rice production and to demonstrate the function of each tool. During the briefing, several apps were discussed, including Binhing Palay, Edamuhan, MOET and AgriDOC. These apps are designed to help farmers in seed selection, weed identification, nutrient diagnosis and farm record keeping.

Jessica Torreon, an agricultural extension worker (AEW) from LGU-Talibon, Bohol, stated, "It has a good impact on the farmers. I hope we can share what we have learned today not only with the farmers but also with the younger generation so that they can be excited about agriculture." The sentiment was echoed by other participants, including Allan C. Aurit, a farmer from Brgy. Sto. Niño, Talibon, Bohol, who expressed his gratitude for being able to attend the seminar and how helpful it was for the farmers.

The technical briefing was also an excellent opportunity for farmers to learn about the digital way of living, as discussed by Harvy M. Yarag, an agricultural technician from Lazi, Siquijor. He said, "it's a great pleasure and privilege to be part of this training because I've learned a lot about ICT tools and their importance. They are applicable to everybody, especially to farmers who need to adopt these new technologies to make their work easier."

Teodosia A. Evangelista, a Secretary of the Irrigators Association, San Roque, Talibon, Bohol, added, "I learned about ICT Tools in rice production that are so helpful for the farmers and agricultural technicians. These tools can help us to make work easier."

In conclusion, the Technical Briefing on Selected ICT Tools in Rice Production was an informative and educational seminar that provided farmers and agricultural technicians with an understanding of the importance of ICT tools in rice production. The knowledge shared will help them improve their yield and reduce potential losses. It was also an opportunity for them to learn about the digital way of living and be excited about modern agriculture.