Maramag, Bukidnon, March 5 – Thirty farmers from the different provinces in Northern Mindanao completed the Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification for Seed Growers Training course today, in this town.

Spearheaded by the DA-Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), aspiring seed growers learned on the cultural management practices relative to the growth stages of the rice plant, and the policies and guidelines on seed certification for inbred rice seed production.

To further enhance their capacity, the participants also went through field practicum on seedbed preparation, rouging and warehouse inspection with the DA-Bureau of Plant Industry – National Seed Quality Control Services (DA-BPI-NSQCS).

Under the Department of Agriculture (DA), NSQCS is responsible for certifying quality seed planting materials acquired by accredited seed growers.

The three-day training is one of the activities conducted simultaneously in the region, also in time with the first anniversary celebration of the Rice Tarrification Law (RTL) or Republic Act 11203, an act liberalizing the importation, exportation and trading of rice.

DA-ATI and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority share Php1-billion allocation from the Php10-billion total budget of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, intended for extension support and education of rice farmers.

This activity is supported by the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10, thru Provincial Operations Center Chief for Bukidnon Engr. Deliza T. Camaro and the Provincial Agriculture Office, headed by Engr. Alson G. Quimba.# (EMB)