Integrated crop management practices introduced to Sigma, Capiz rice farmers

The Department of Agriculture (DA) Western Visayas facilitated a training on integrated crop management package of technology in Sigma, Capiz on July 29, aiming to help 160 rice farmers from three cluster areas improve their productivity this wet cropping season.

According to DA Science Research Specialist II Wilmar Opher, the activity is part of a priority research initiative currently funded by the Bureau of Agricultural Research. The project focuses on introducing location-specific and integrated crop management practices to farmers from the 12 farmers’ associations in Sigma.

Each of the 160 participating farmers is cultivating one hectare of rice land to serve as demonstration farms showcasing a package of recommended technologies. These include the use of certified seeds at 80 kilograms per hectare, fertilizer management based on soil analysis, and the adoption of the ‘4R’ applying the right source of fertilizer at the right rate, right time, and right placement.

Participants were also introduced to biological control agents such as Trichogramma to manage pests and reduce reliance on chemical inputs, which often contribute to crop diseases during the first cropping season. Resource speakers from the DA also demonstrated simplified approaches on producing botanical concoctions and setting up vermicomposting.

“Through these interventions, our goal is to increase productivity to at least four tons per hectare, ensuring a more stable income for our farmers. We have observed a strong interest from farmers in adopting these new technologies here in Sigma, Capiz,” added Opher. ###Text by Sheila Mae T. Cocjin & Photos by Khrysma Dei Caldina/DA-RAFIS 6