BAYBAY CITY, Leyte - The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), as the capacity builder, knowledge bank, and catalyst of the Philippine Agriculture and Fisheries extension system, continues its efforts to help develop the capabilities and strengthen the competitiveness of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs). In a 5-day training for AEWs, aligned with the Eastern Visayas Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP) deliverables for 2023-2028 Convergence Plan, ATI-RTC 8 conducted a capacity building for select rice coordinators in the region.
With the emphasis on the adoption of Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) for a food-secure Philippines, the BFS program is supported by the different DA attached agencies to sustain crop production. The looming price increase of fertilizer is still due to the strong global demand and higher input costs since the Philippines is a long-time net importer of inorganic fertilizer, despite its low feasibility of producing its inorganic fertilizer. Thus, the training aims to equip the AEWs with the knowledge and skills on integrated nutrient management with emphasis on BFS in rice farming. This five-day training targets municipalities in Region 8 that currently lack trained Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in this specific program.
AEWs have gained a new appreciation on the concept of the Balanced Fertilization Strategy in rice farming as presented and discussed by resource persons from DA-attached agencies. Further, they have properly demonstrated the standard procedure in soil sampling and collection for MOET, STK analysis, and Soil laboratory analysis, and formulated organic/natural fertilizers that are available in the farm.
Ms. Mary Rose C. Infante, AEW - LGU Gamay, Northern Samar, shares, “Through this training I realized the importance of optimizing the use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers to provide the right amount of nutrients for optimal growth and yield of the crops while minimizing the environmental impact”.
As part of their outputs, participants have submitted re-entry plans for the implementation of BFS program.
A total of 24 participants completed the Capacitating AEWs on Integrated Nutrient Management with emphasis on Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) in Rice Farming in June 23-27, 2025 at PhilRootcrops, VSU Campus, Baybay City, Leyte. (With reports from Junalyn F, Palco)
