CABITEN, MANKAYAN, BENGUET. In a bid to address the declining trend in rice production, 25 farmers from the Cabiten Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (CFFA) recently completed a comprehensive training on the PalayCheck System for Effective Rice Farming Management—a rice farming approach aimed at improving yields, profitability, and sustainability.
The training was held from April 28 to 30 organized by the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center - Cordillera Administrative Region (ATI-RTC-CAR) in partnership with the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAg) Benguet, and the Office of the Municipal Agriculture (OMAg) Mankayan.
Rice farming remains a critical livelihood in Benguet, particularly in its lowland areas where both irrigated and rainfed varieties are cultivated. However, data shows that rice production has dropped significantly in recent years. From a peak of 17,361.97 metric tons in 2017, output fell by 36.47% to just 11,029.81 metric tons in 2021. This sharp decline has prompted local authorities to enhance farmers through training and introduce more effective cultivation strategies.
The three-day training in Cabiten aimed to introduce farmers to the PalayCheck System—a step-by-step crop management guide that includes key checks, technological recommendations, and best practices designed to improve crop outcomes.
“We are thankful for choosing us and bring this training accessible and for supporting the Cabiten Farmers and Fisherfolks Association,” said Hon. Jerry Motes, Barangay Kagawad of Cabiten, during the opening program.
Municipal Agriculturist Maribel Pinas emphasized the lasting impact of the training. “After this three-day training, you will be bringing home ‘ayuda,’ and that is your learnings,” she said, encouraging participants to apply their knowledge in future farming activities.
Resource persons from OPAg-Benguet led in-depth discussions during the training. Mr. Brent A. Atew covered rice morphology, nutrient management, and the fundamentals of the PalayCheck System. Mr. Marlon O. Calatan walked participants through the nine key checks, while Mr. Tyrone K. Dagdag addressed pest and disease management strategies.
To further support the farmers, each participant received two 50-kilogram bags of triple 14 fertilizer, four packs containing six varieties of lowland vegetable seeds, and two seedling trays. These provisions will serve as a revolving fund, helping the association sustain its operations and secure additional income for future cropping cycles.
The training underscores the Department of Agriculture’s commitment to empowering farmers through education, resource distribution, and community engagement—key steps toward revitalizing rice sector amid ongoing agricultural challenges.// Jormar Guerzon, PAFES Technical Support Staff.
