The Department of Agriculture (DA) aims to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of high-quality inbred seeds to ensure long-term seed security and enhance farm productivity, thereby contributing to rice self-sufficiency in the country.
Seed growers are pivotal in realizing this goal by producing and distributing high-quality inbred rice seeds. According to data from the Bureau of Plant Industry-National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS) 8, as of August 2024, Region 8 has 209 certified seed growers cultivating an accredited area of 1,308.30 hectares. However, 51 seed growers in the region face the expiration of their certifications by June 2025.
To address this, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center VIII (ATI-RTC 8), in collaboration with BPI-NSQCS 8 and DA-RFO 8, conducted two batches of Refresher Courses on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification in Region VIII. The training is part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Extension Program, designed to equip existing seed growers with the latest updates on inbred rice seed production and certification, ensuring their eligibility for the renewal of their licenses and accreditation.
The training featured expert resource persons who shared valuable technical insights. Dr. Lourdes Cano kicked off the session focusing on leadership and values. Mr. Dax Gabriel Morfe, Regional Seed Coordinator, discussed the regional rice situation and buffer stocking. Ms. Susan R. Brena, Supervising Science Research Specialist at PhilRice, led a session on Integrated Cultural Management (ICM) for Rice Production, including harvest and post-harvest technologies. Seed grower and trainer Ms. Aida Longakit provided an in-depth discussion on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), while Ms. Maria Helen P. Seco covered Integrated Nutrient Management. Mr. Marvin Garcia from PhilRice Bicol provided updates on the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) and its seed component, and Mr. Neil De Paz, also from PhilRice Bicol, discussed varietal selection and the characteristics of approved NSIC varieties, as well as the Binhing Palay App.
Additionally, Ms. Loida N. Ultra, Regional Chief of BPI-NSQCS 8, revisited the Policies, Guidelines, and Mechanics of Seed Certification for Inbred Seed Production. BPI-NSQCS also led discussions on field inspection techniques, rouging, seed sampling, bagging, tagging, seed testing procedures, and standards, complemented by hands-on practicum sessions. On the final day, participants filled out accreditation application forms. The Department of Agriculture's AMAD 8 provided an overview of the seed marketing process.
A total of 41 seed growers successfully completed the consecutive 3-day refresher course on November 25-27, 2024, and November 28-30, 2024 at ATI-RTC 8, VSU Campus, Baybay City, Leyte, respectively.
