MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte – Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from various municipalities in Southern Leyte enhanced their digital extension capabilities through the Training on Rice Crop Manager Advisory Services (RCMAS) conducted on April 21–24, 2026 in Maasin City.
The training aimed to equip 25 AEWs with practical skills in using RCMAS to deliver site-specific and science-based recommendations for rice farmers. During the first day, participants explored the platform’s interface and features, created their user profiles, and practiced farmer and farm lot registration in the RCMAS test site, including the assignment of GPX IDs for accurate farm mapping.
Participants then focused on the interpretation and communication of RCMAS-generated recommendations. They were guided through the questionnaire used during farmer interviews and learned how to clearly explain the advisory outputs. The session also emphasized the principles of Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM), alongside a refresher on the proper use of GPS handheld devices for field measurement.
Field practicum was conducted in Brgy. Manhilo, Maasin City, where participants engaged directly with farmers. Activities included conducting interviews on farm practices, registering farm lots, measuring farm areas using GPS devices, and generating tailored RCMAS recommendations based on collected data.
“As someone who is almost retiring, this training is still very beneficial for me especially to the farmers here in Maasin.” explained Edna Panal from the City Agriculture Office of Maasin. She said that the RCMAS will be used especially this coming May, as they will be starting their FFS on Rice Production. “We will incorporate this to the training and ensure that all 40 participants will be interviewed using RCM.” she stated.
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) tool was also discussed as a follow-up to RCMAS interviews and other interventions provided by the government through the different MAOs. The discussion will also aid them in assessing their extension work and developing re-entry plans for their respective areas. Upon completion of the four-day training, participants are eligible to earn 7.00 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credit units for Licensed Professional Agriculturists, recognizing their efforts in advancing digital agriculture in the rice sector.
