The Official Publication of the Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Office 1

DAMAGVolume 18, Issue 1 | January - March 2019 3 DA consults stakeholders to finalize drafting of Rice Trade Liberalization Law

4 hosts 8th NRTF

6 DA-RFO I builds meaningful partnership with Piddig officials

8 DA-INREC leads research to increase Ilocos garlic prod’n

9 AMIA project reaches Solsona farmers

This quarter’s cover was taken at one of 10 Farmers clamor for Carrageenan PGP the sites of the on-going Carrageenan to increase rice prod’n project being conducted by the DA- RFO 1’s Research Division in , . This is just one of the 11 Ilocos stakeholders get updates on interventions of DA in pursuit to a Biotech 101, Joint Department Circular competitive Philippine rice industry. 12 DA-RFO I engages farmers in organic soybean research

14 IS farmers see brighter prospects with DA’s corn model farm

16 Groundbreaking ceremonies for Crops R&D Center held 17 EdSeCom members talk on Ilocos’ economic status

18 IN farmers receive livestock; Multiplier Farm launched

19 RED Alviar meets ManCom members for Operational Planning Workshop

20 DA-Ilocos takes pride for being number 1

Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr., CESO III Consuelo N. Belarmino Regional Executive Director Chief, Integrated Laboratories Division 20 Malasakit Help Desk for Ilocos Orlando J. Lorenzana Florentino A. Adame, DVM farmers launched RTD for Research and Regulations Chief, Regulatory Division DA turns-over Php13.5M-worth Erlinda F. Manipon Joel G. Maconocido 21 OIC, RTD for Operations OIC, Administrative and Finance Division facility to LGU Tayug Anne Q. Bares, DVM Dennis I. Tactac, RPAE Chief, Field Operations Division Head, Regional Agricultural Engineering Division 21 Movers MPC receives P6M-worth RPC Jovita M. Datuin, Ph.D Constancia R. Diaz, DVM Chief, Research and Development Division Head, Research and Experiment Center Mr. Joey Ramos: Doris Joy C. Garcia Wilma A. Ibea 22 Chief, Planning, Monitoring and Head, Ilocos Norte Research and Region I’s nominee to the Search for Evaluation Division Experiment Center Outstanding Seed Innovator - Seed Wilhelmina P. Castañeda Grower Category Chief, Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division DA consults stakeholders to finalize drafting of Rice Trade Liberalization Law

‘ he Rice Tariffication Law has Piñol informed that possible impact of producing provinces in the country and been signed, we understand your imported rice influx in the markets would the creation of national ID system for worries but I assure you, DA is here decrease wholesale price of milled rice individual farmers to properly monitor Tand we will respond to your needs.’ from an average of P42.25 to P35.31 kg. and interventions given to them. This is the reassuring statement of lower farm gate price of rice from P20.93 Meanwhile, Sec Piñol also mentioned Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol to P16.94. positive side of the implementation of the to the rice industry stakeholders during “Let us discuss together what we can Rice Tariffication Law where a P10 billion the Consultation on RA 11203 also known do outside the Tariffication law. We have fund will be appropriated annually for the as the Rice Trade Liberalization Law held to proceed. We cannot abandon our rice next six years following the approval of the at the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) in industry because it is our basic staple Act to support farmers through the Rice Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. RA 11203 provides food,” urged Sec. Piñol amidst farmers' Competitive Enhancement Fund (RCEF). the drafting of Implementing Rules and uncertainty of whether producing rice With the implementation of RA 11203, Regulations (IRR) within 45 days from the would still be viable since they now have the NFA has been stripped off of its effectivity of the Act, in consultation with to compete with cheap imported rice in regulatory and licensing powers/functions stakeholders. the market. as the Food Safety Act has now been given The RA 11203 has been signed into law Sec Piñol gave assurance of various to the BPI as the implementing authority. by Pres. Rodrigo Duterte on February 14, strategies now being crafted by DA to help NFA has now been tasked primarily to 2019 which has now opened the Philippine rice farmers be competitive and more maintain and manage buffer stocking of market to imported rice. Under said law, productive to cushion the adverse effect rice supply to be sourced solely from local anybody can import rice without having of the Rice Tariffication Law. What DA rice farmers. to get import permit from the National will do he said is to focus in improving During the consultation, rice Food Authority (NFA). They need only to competitiveness & farm income of farmer leaders and LGU rice program secure Sanitary & Phytosanitary Import farmers, enhance resiliency to disasters implementers expressed their concerns Clearance (SPIC) from the Bureau of Plant and climate risks and ensure access to on how they can cope with the effect of the Industry (BPI) then pay corresponding safe & nutritious rice. To implement Tariffication law. They gave suggestions importation fee to the Bureau of Customs. this, various core supports will be given and recommendations to be possibly With this scenario, rice farmers, rice on irrigation, input subsidy, capability included in the RA 11203 IRR that could and feed millers and small rice traders enhancement trainings, easier access to somehow safeguard the interest of the rice in the country now fear that influx of credit, improvement of farm to market stakeholders and the entire rice industry cheap imported rice in the market would roads, provision of crop insurance support, of the country amidst the looming threat significantly affect their income. among many others. He also specifically of massive imported rice influx in the In his presentation of data from the mentioned the establishment of Solar Philippine market.// Philippine Statistics Authority(PSA), Sec. Powered Irrigation System in major rice

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 3 Ilocos Region hosts 8th NRTF

housands of rice farmers and extension providers both from private ang kailangan ng ating mga magsasaka industry stakeholders from all sector and government as they learn and ay binhi at pataba. Kaya naman nasa over the country gathered in be informed on the latest technologies Russia ngayon ang ating Kalihim Manny TAsingan, Pangasinan on March 20- in rice production and witness the Piñol upang makipag negotiate sa pagbili 22,2019 to participate in the 8th National differences of each rice variety adopting ng fertilizer, bukod pa sa paghahanap ng Rice Technology Forum hosted by DA different seeding rate, distance of investment opportunities sa mga produktong Ilocos Region. planting, and how each showcased areas niyog,” Villacorta informed. Participants, especially the farmers, would differ in yield per hectare during Villacorta likewise mentioned the benefited in getting a first-hand harvest. strategies being polished by DA through experience from the field demo of DA Assistant Secretary Designate for the Rice Industry Road Map that is various rice technologies highlighting Operations, Agribusiness and Marketing, now being crafted to help cushion the the use of hybrid rice varieties seen at the Dr. Andrew Villacorta represented DA impact of the Rice Tariffication Law. He 37.5-hectare demo area at Brgys. Bactad Secretary Emmanuel Piñol as the Guest mentioned that the low price of palay in East, Urdaneta City and Domampot, of Honor and Speaker. the market at present is not yet a direct Asingan in the province of Pangasinan. In his message during the opening effect of the rice Tariffication law as the An activity led by the Rice Board program, ASec Villacorta informed law is yet to be fully implemented upon and the Department of Agriculture- the participants about the P52 billion approval of its Implementing Rules and Regional Field Office I in collaboration proposed budget of DA for CY 2020 which Regulations (IRR). with the Provincial Government Unit is ten times higher than the current DA ‘Ang ating Kalihim po ay ginagawa lahat of Pangasinan and the City/Municipal allocation. ng paraan para ang ating mga magsasaka Government of Urdaneta and Asingan, This bold move was made by Sec. ng palay ay lubos na matulungan. We the conduct of the techno forum was Piñol upon the instruction of President will focus on improving the quality of also in tandem with 14 participating seed Duterte. Asec Villacorta expressed high palay produced by farmers, we will help and fertilizer companies that showcased hopes that the Department of Budget them increase their yield and lower their technologies with the use of hybrid and Management (DBM) would consider their cost of production through various and high quality inbred seeds, fertilizer the proposal. interventions so they can still compete and nutrient management featuring Villacorta also mentioned DA’s in the marketing of their rice produce,’ manual transplanting, mechanical and National Fertilizer Support Program Villacorta added. direct seeding. upon the marching order of President Meanwhile, to provide the techno- The three-day rice techno forum also Rodrigo Duterte using the plant now pay forum participants with the latest provided an avenue for rice farmers and later or roll-over scheme. programs, projects and services of DA other stakeholders to interact with agri- “Mismong ang President ang nagsabi na and other major agencies relative to the

4 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Ilocos Region The 37.5-hectare demo area at Brgys. Bactad East, Urdaneta City and Domampot, Asingan in the hosts 8th NRTF province of Pangasinan.

development of the rice industry, topics both private and public agencies, the and one as the lowest rating. on hybrid rice production including technology forum served as an avenue Mr. Rodolfo “Jun” Estrada, Chairman credit, financing and crop insurance to promote the various technologies of the Committee on Techno-demo and were discussed by invited resource in rice production including the Field Tour said that the consolidation speakers from PhilRice, Land Bank of use of quality seeds, fertilizer and of the result of the evaluation and the , and Philippine Crop nutrient management, as well as rice assessment shall be done to determine Insurance Corporation, among others. mechanization project to optimize rice the preferred farmers’ varieties for a Having viewed and assessed the yield and production. recommendation in Ilocos Region. standing crops staged in the field demo, Featuring the 25 hybrid rice varieties, Meanwhile, Mr. Jimbo Lantano, 31, farmer-attendees are waiting for the eight inbred rice varieties using the farmer-cooperator from Brgy. Bactad final result of production yield for every manual transplanting, direct seeding, East, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan in his seed variety demonstrated to determine and mechanical planting technologies testimony said that through this activity, the top yielding varieties which could were showcased. The techno-forum also he was able to learn about hybrid rice be recommended for adoption in Ilocos gave opportunity for the rice farmers and appreciated more the use of such for Region. and other industry stakeholders to see he was able to double his yield from his for themselves the standing crop of the previous planting using the hybrid rice Why adopting rice hybridization showcased varieties giving them the variety. matters option to choose what varieties and Ms. Soledad dela Cruz, 66, one of “Kabaleyan, man Hybrid Rice ti la” technologies they would want to adopt the farmer-cooperator from the same (Kabayan, mag hybrid rice na tayo). in their own fields. was also thankful for the This is the battle cry of the organizers Using the evaluation and assessment conduct of the NRTF as she experienced of the 8th National Rice Technology form provided by the techno-demo and better yield now through the proper Forum (NRTF) as they encouraged the field tour committees, farmer-attendees guidance of the assigned technician in farmer-attendees to use hybrid rice seeds were asked to give their assessment based her area. for higher yield and production. on the physical standing crop that they “Nakarecover din kami sa aming As the Department of Agriculture observed during the field tour including pagkalugi dati dahil sa mga free inputs na gears towards food security, the adoption the panicle formation and reaction to the binigay sa amin ng mga organizers nitong of hybrid rice was seen as another means pest of the crop varieties showcased. techno-demo,” Ms. Dela Cruz added. to provide adequate food for the Filipino Farmer-attendees were asked to The NRTF was initially launched in population. provide their ratings based on the criteria January 24 and was attended by over 600 In collaboration with the 14 seed, set by the committee on Field Tour and farmers// fertilizer and nutrient companies in Techno-demo with five as the highest

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 5 RED Lucrecio R. Alviar alongside representatives of the regional offices : DILG, DOST, and DOT in the successful launching of the Sunflower farm, Food Factory School, and graduation of scholars for the Training for Work Scholarship Program .

DA-RFO I builds meaningful partnership with Piddig officials; agri-dev’t agenda sealed

e can make things happen DA’s partnership with Piddig. the development plans and programs now, we want a meaningful With capital as one of the crucial of Piddig and will work closely with the and productive partnership, component in the farming sector, officials and staff of the municipality. andW so let’s do it,” RED Alviar instructed Ms. Wilhelmina The Planning. Monitoring and Top performing Regional Executive Castañeda of the Agribusiness Evaluation Division of DA-RFO I Director Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr. noted Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) shall also spearhead the conduct of this in his recent visit in Piddig for a to assist the Piddig Organic Coffee a workshop in the preparation of a consultation-dialogue with former Processors and Producers Cooperative roadmap or strategic plan to determine Piddig Mayor Eddie Guillen on February as possible conduit of the Agricultural the gaps and needs of Piddig in so far 13-14, 2019 at the Municipal Hall of Credit Policy Council (ACPC) for capital as the development and sustainability Piddig, Ilocos Norte. loan that can be availed of by members Pulling together his operations, of the cooperative. More on the sealed planning, market and information In support to the livestock industry of agreement with Piddig development officers and managers, Piddig, DA will enhance the livelihood Director Alviar affirmed hisopportunities for livestock raisers in On a look out for a larger expansion commitments in the realization of the area through trainings like feed area for garlic in Ilocos Region, DA- Piddig’s thrusts and vision for a dynamic formulation, among others. RFO 1 also found the answer in Piddig and progressive agriculture town in the “We will make your coop as the through former Mayor Eddie Guillen region. model of all cooperatives in the region,” who committed a 200-hectare area in Alviar pledged to provide the needed Alviar said. their municipality for garlic production. support for farmers to realize targeted To sustain the partnership, DA-RFO I Former Mayor Eddie Guillen, as projects that will be established through will organize a Task Force to focus on Municipal Consultant, briefly presented

6 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 to Alviar the Piddig’s Agribusiness of the Piddig Agrotourism Farm on was the idea of the Senate Committee Model during the said meeting February 14, 2019. Chairman on Agriculture - Sen. Cynthia highlighting major features of their DA-RFO 1 celebrates Villar thus we will sustain this project consolidated farming project which with Piddig and promote organic agriculture as well,” the former mayor claims to be one of he added. the successful strategies of the MLGU The successful launching of the Grand Meanwhile, former Mayor Eduardo of Piddig in increasing income of both Opening of the Food Factory School, Guillen and currently the Municipal the farmers and the municipality as Agrotourism Farm and graduation of the Consultant who’s behind the idea of far as rice production is concerned Training for Work Scholarship Program the project said that this convergence at the same time gaining the trust (TWSP) Scholars on February 14 in project was his way to ask funds from and confidence of the farmers to the Brgy. Maruaya called for a celebration the National Government Agencies, his administration in Piddig. which was gladly celebrated by the answer to the question why he put up a Getting insight of a good leadership municipality alongside DA RFO 1 among project like this in a remote area. and productive tandem of the former other key stakeholders. “Alam niyo I have reasons why I put this Mayor with his wife, current Mayor “Malaki ang tulong ng project na ito project here. Una, para ichallenge yung Georgina Salazar-Guillen, Alviar offered sa mga farmers natin dito sa Piddig. mga farmers. Because I told them that possible assistance and partnerships for Sa ngayon we have around 30 farmers we will place a sunflower farm here. They DA-related projects to be established in who are currently working here para sa insisted at first kasi hindi daw compatible the said municipality like the expansion maintenance ng area,” said Dr. Cresencio ang sunflower sa area. But, tingnan niyo area for garlic. M. Figurascion – President, Piddig naman ang imposibleng akala nila ay For 2019, DA-RFO I through the Organic Agriculture Practitioners naging posible,” Guillen said proudly. High Value Crops Development Association, pertaining to the Agro- “Secondly, this is my way para humingi Program (HVCDP) targeted to have an tourism farm which is the Sun Flower ng pundo sa gobyerno. Tignan niyo naman expansion area of around 850 hectares Maze Farm and the Pick and Pay of madami pang puwedeng gawin para sa for garlic all throughout the region. Organic Vegetables. development ng project na ito especially the Expected to realize this target is the 200 The Sun Flower maze in Piddig is the road coming here. We have 23 barangays hectares committed by Piddig and the fourth sunflower farm in the country in Piddig and we only have 20 million 100-hectare expansion area in , and second in Region 1- first farm was in na fund, kulang ang almost 1 million sa both in Ilocos Norte. Tayug, Pangasinan. isang barangay para sa ganitong project,” As expansion area for garlic, Piddig Some organic vegetables available in Guillen jokingly added. farmers who will opt to plant garlic this the Pick and Pay area were: upo, tomato, This project as a whole is a convergence year will be provided with free planting string beans, squash, bitter gourd, project of the different government materials, fertilizers and ameliorants Baguio beans, corn, among others. agencies in the region and was graced by DA through the High Value Crops These vegetables were planted by the by the Regional Directors and their Development Program. 69 graduates of TWSP scholars for the representatives from the Department Likewise, crop suitability test using completion of the Technical Education of Agriculture (DA), Department of soil sampling will be made before and Skills Development Authority Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade the onset of garlic planting season (TESDA) course - Organic Agriculture and Industry (DTI), Department of to determine the suitability of the Program NCII. Labor and Employment (DOLE), commodity in the area. “At ang naipoproduce pa lamang dito Department of Science and Technology With the additional 300-hectare area sa food processing natin ay, pickeled (DOST), Department of Social Welfare for expansion committed by Piddig mushroom at coffee. But sooner gagawa and Development (DSWD), Technical and Bacarra, in Ilocos Norte, the DA- na din tayo ng mga biofertilizers na Education and Skills Development RFO I is still looking for 550 hectares to gagamitin din sa mga tanim,” Figuracion Authority (TESDA) and Municipal complete the target expansion area of shared in his discussion about the food Mayor of Piddig, Ilocos Norte - Hon. Region I on garlic production. processing center of the Food Factory Mayor Georgina Salazar-Guillen who This is part of the agreement made School in the site. spearheaded the formal launching of the by RED Alviar with Guillen during his “It is really benefiting for the people. project thru a ribbon cutting ceremony.// visit to attend the scheduled launching Actually this Food Factory School

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 7 DA-INREC leads research to increase Ilocos garlic prod’n

oining efforts to meet the increasing demand vis a vis addressing the declining supply of garlic commodity inJ the country, researchers of the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office I through the Ilocos Norte Research & Experiment Center (INREC) based in City, Ilocos Norte are currently conducting six garlic-related research studies that aim to expand potential areas for garlic production and enhancing the growth and yield of garlic in the region.

The research projects “Multi-location Gem (Miracle). Enhancing Garlic Production through Adaptability Trial of Garlic Varieties “Aside from the seven registered garlic Good Agricultural Practices Interventions and Other Cultivars in Region I” and the varieties, we also used four (4) garlic in Ilocos Norte – are all conducted to ”Selection, Purification and Multiplication cultivars collected for characterization, to enhance the volume of garlic production of Garlic Cultivars for Planting Materials be purified and multiplied and ultimately using good agricultural practices and in Region I” are meant to identify suitable for registration later on to the Bureau of cost-saving technologies in growing garlic garlic varieties and other garlic cultivars Plant and Industry,” Ms. Igarta said. in the region. as planting materials in the identified She identified these four cultivars Garlic, known to the Ilokano farmers potential growing areas leading to the as the Native garlic, Sarang, Romblon as the most valued cash crop because increase of the existing 2,014 hectares and Batanes White which were planted of its high profitability especially during garlic production areas in Ilocos Region. in Batac station to evaluate their yield dry season is currently facing major Using the seven registered garlic performances. setbacks brought by the fluctuating price varieties and four (4) garlic cultivars, “Upon evaluation of the yield in the market, flooding of imported garlic, the research study on Multi-location performance of these cultivars, we may declining of area and production and the Adaptability Trial was established in able to encourage more farmers to high price of planting materials. thirteen (13) sites in the region composed plant garlic as we will distribute these With the conduct of these research of three sites in Ilocos Norte, two sites cultivars to garlic seed growers for mass projects, they could somehow contribute each in and and six production. Hence, garlic farmers have to the development of the industry to (6) sites in Pangasinan. ready and available planting materials,” benefit not only the garlic farmers but Ms. Sylvia Igarta, one of the project Ms, Igarta added. also to the consumers. leaders of the two researches identified The other four researches – Growth and Aside from Ms. Igarta, other researchers the seven registered garlic varieties used Yield Performance of Garlic Applied with who focuses on the development of the in the study to include among others the Different Foliar Fertilizers and Growth garlic industry in the region were Ms. NSIC 2017 Gr01 to GR07 such as Ilocos Promoters, Potential Yield of Garlic Using Wilma Ibea, Chief of INREC, Mr. Ireneo White locally known as “Balitok”, Batanes Goat Manure Tea in Combination with Mandac, Ms. Reinamae Banquirig, Mr. Red, Ilocos Pink also known as “Gameng”, In-organic Fertilizer, Effect of Organic Jay-ar Baligat, and Ms. Vannesa Joy Mexican (Sanikua), VFTA 275 M76 (Bang- Foliar Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield Marquez.// ar), Ilocos Tanbolters and the MMSU of Garlic under GAP Management, and

8 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Farmers check the bales compressed by the harvester with baler machine.

AMIA project reaches Solsona farmers

he Adaptation and Mitigation in crop-livestock integration which is Unicols Manalo for the procurement of Initiative in Agriculture or AMIA is an important component of a climate machineries and facilities that will be a project that aims to mainstream resilient agriculture. In addition to used to mitigate the contribution of crop Tclimate change mitigation strategies in this, the upscaling of AMIA in their and livestock production in gas emission. agriculture. It will likewise address the area includes the provision of farm As of now, the harvester with baler issues on the adverse effects of climate machineries that aids in their labor- machine is being used by the rice farmers. change in the agriculture sector. intensive activities. It is a machine used to compress a cut In Ilocos Region, AMIA was first “When the evaluators came here, and raked crop such as hay or silage into piloted in the municipality of San Emilio, they saw that we have a multiplier farm compact bales that are easy to handle, Ilocos Sur in December 2016. Since wherein we use and produce our own transport, and store. AMIA has developed the area into a silage,” said Calucag, Other machineries and facilities climate-resilient village, the project “So when they introduced AMIA provided under the project include the was expanded in Solsona, Ilocos Norte. project, I immediately accepted it four-wheel drive tractor with 100hp, The municipality is composed of 22 because with this, it will speed up farm generator set, and a storage facility barangays with a vast agriculture sector activities and we can cater more farmers for rice and corn silage amounting to and a leader who is a farmer by heart. through harvesting their corn with the P1,000,000. These machineries will be Solsona Mayor Alexander Calucag use of the machines” he added. part of the multiplier farm project of informed that their municipality was A total of nine million (P9M) pesos the LGU and will serve as a common selected as recipient of AMIA project was downloaded to the LGU-Solsona service facility to be used by farmers in because their focused agenda is by DA-System Wide Climate Change the locality.// agriculture. The municipality is engaged Office (SWCCO) headed by Director

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 9

Saan kami pwedeng makabili at “ “ Farmers clamor for kailan magiging available ang Carrageenan PGP sa merkado? carrageenan PGP to increase rice prod’n

armer attendees of the field day is used for rice production. absorbing all other essential elements. on Field Verification Testing The Carrageenan Techno Demo “The plant could absorb 95-98% of of Carrageenan Plant Growth Team composed of the National Crop the essential nutrients it requires when FPromoter (PGP) for Enhanced Growth Protection Center (NCPC) – University the carrageenan is applied to the rice and Induced Pests and Diseases of the Philippines in Los Baños, the plant,” Magsino said. Resistance in Rice clamored this to the DOST-PNRI and DOST-PCARRD Serving as vitamins of the plant, Carrageenan Techno Demo Team after gladly answered that the product will Magsino said that the carrageenan hearing the testimonies of the farmer- be made available soon in the market consistently provides 15% increase cooperators who have tried and tested after ending the field verification in all in yield in all the field testing trials the Carrageenan PGP in their own field the regions with the help of a private conducted by the Carrageenan Team. during the field day program conducted company which will mass produce and Aside from this benefit, Magsano also at the DA-Ilocos Norte Research and commercialize the product. emphasized that a farmer could save Experiment Center in , Ilocos “This is the last field verification 18% on its cost of production with the Norte on March 14, 2019. that the team is conducting from the reduction on the use of pesticides as the The Carrageenan PGP is a plant nine selected regions in the country product could attract natural enemies. food supplement extracted from red and hopefully it will be made available “Right now, we are also on process of edible seaweed that can be treated to next year for commercialization,” Mr. conducting trials on corn production in break its particles down into very small Angelito Carpio, Supervising Research Isabela and eventually in all other crops pieces which are readily absorbed by Specialists of PCARRD, has confirmed. like banana, sugarcane and vegetables plants. Discovered by the Department Director Gil Magsino, the project to improve the production of these of Science and Technology - Philippine leader and Director of the NCPC crops,” he added. Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) in UPLB, in his message during the Based on the result of the field and funded by the Philippine Council program underscored the essential trials established in City, for Agriculture and Aquatic Natural functions of the carrageenan PGP in Dingras, Bacarra, Solsona, Marcos Resources Research & Development enhancing the growth and development and Vintar in Ilocos Norte in both wet (PCARRD), the product with a brand of rice plant as it supplies the needed and dry cropping seasons, the use of name Carrageenan PGP foliar fertilizer nutrient requirements of the plants in carrageenan PGP have consistently >>>>

10 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Ilocos stakeholders get updates on Biotech 101, Joint Department Circular

ver 150 stakeholders, contributes to food security farmer leaders, students, and sustainability for the rising members of the academe, population. Moreover, the ODA representatives, and members advances in biotechnology do not of the local government units only provide benefits in agriculture from selected municipalities in the but also in other areas of living. region were convened during the However, despite the advantages conduct of Biotechnology 101 and of planting GM crops, issues on Joint Department Circular (JDC) its negative impacts continuously Public Briefing at Plaza Del Norte, arise. Laoag, Ilocos Norte on March 28, One of the highlights of the 2019. activity was the open forum where The activity was sponsored issues and concerns of the general by the International Service for public on biotech was addressed enhanced the yield of inbred seeds the Acquisition of Agri-biotech by the panel members from DA, because of the plants’ resistance to leaf Applications (ISAAA), DA DOH, DENR, DILG, and DOST. blight, thickening and increasing of Biotechnology Program Office, Among the queries that emerged rice straw and panicle and shows more and the Southeast Asian Regional was the possibility of using GM vigorous plants. Center for Graduate Study and seeds for organic agriculture. The on-station trials as managed Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) As a response to the issue, Fr. by the researchers of INREC in in coordination with the DA RFO I Emmanuel Alparce of DA - Biotech Dingras gained an increase of 14% and the Provincial Government of Program cited Mr. Juanito Rama in yield with the combination of full Ilocos Norte. (an outstanding corn awardee from recommendation of inorganic and The JDC covers subjects on Tarlac) as an example. Mr. Rama nine liters/ha. of carrageenan during the rules and regulations for planted GM corn varieties way wet season while 15% increase in yield the research and development back 2014 and used only a minimal using the same fertilizer combination of biotech, its handling and amount of chemical fertilizer with in the on station-trials conducted at use, transboundary movement, additional organic-based liquid Pangasinan Research and Experiment release into the environment, fertilizer but still posted a yield of Center in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan. and management of Genetically- 20.6 tons per hectare. In terms of the agronomic Modified Plant (GM – Plant) and With the use of biotech crops, characteristics of the inbred rice plant products derived from the there would be lesser usage of planted in both stations, a significant use of modern biotechnology. chemicals since the plants' genetic performance of the rice plant was The activity aims to create composition has already been observed in terms of the plant height, awareness among stakeholders altered. number of tillers, panicle length, and about Biotechnology and help Among the genetically modified the weight of 1,000 grams of seeds them be familiarized with the crops that are planted globally, as compared to the non-usage of new guidelines on biotech crops maize or GM corn has dominated carrageenan PDP.// since biotechnology is now seen the country having a total of as a way of improving the quality 812,000-hectare area planted. // and quantity of produce. It also

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 11 nhancing the production while involving 10 farmer-cooperators in the roots. It can be made into tokwa, taho, soya promoting the utilization of region. milk, soy sauce, cookies and texturized soybean and soybean products Funded by the DA-Bureau of Research vegetable protein (TVP) and other sepal- Ein Ilocos Region, the Department of (BAR), the project aims to enhance organic based products. A protein-rich foods and Agriculture-Regional Field Office I through soybean production and processing for with high lunacin content (anti-cancer), the Research and Development (R&D) improved local supply and utilization in this crop is a versatile crop because all of Division engaged Ilocano farmers in the Region 1, improving the soil properties its parts can be converted into something research project, “Enhancing organic such as physical, chemical and biological that is useful. soybean production and processing for properties, as well as providing health “The residues when threshed is a good improved local supply and utilization in benefits to humans and animals for its substrate in mushroom production while Region I.” food and feed use. its hull or the soybean pods when ground Led and managed by Ms. Melinda Soybean (Glycine max) is a leguminous can be used for feeds of animals,” Calumpit Calumpit, the project covered a total of crop that can fix nitrogen from the said. eight municipalities with 9.5 hectares atmosphere thru the bacteria living in the Mr. Ruel Atanacio, 38, one of the farmer- DA-RFO1 engages farmers in organic soybean research

Ms. Melinda Calumpit joins the farmer-cooperators of Sto. Domingo during their harvest season for soybeans. 12 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 cooperators from Brgy. Bacsil in San Juan, Ilocos Sur was among the ten farmer- cooperators who was encouraged to plant soybean in his 3.5-hectare farm. The other farmer-cooperators came from Labrador, Pangasinan and Luna, La Union who planted 1.5 has. and 1 ha., respectively. In Ilocos Sur, the farmer cooperators came from City and San Emilio who planted 0.7 ha and 0.3 ha., respectively. Also, farmers in San Nicolas and Burgos in Ilocos Norte planted 1 ha. and 3 has., respectively. A soybean plant, up-close, ready for harvest. To encourage them to plant this emerging crop, DA through the R&D Division provided planting materials with seeding rate of 50 kg per hectare using the plant now and pay later scheme. Aside from seeds, another intervention of the project is the provision of seed inoculants, biocontrol agents, concoctions, organic fertilizers and technical assistance which were given prior to planting. The variety used in the project is the PSB SY2 variety which was considered by Ms. Calumpit as the most adaptable soybean variety in Ilocos Region. With the allocated budget of P1 million, the project leader hopes to sustain the production, product development as well as promotion and advocacy of the project as it sets to provide processing and production machineries and equipment such as grinder, extractor, tofu maker, oven for cookies, sealer and freezer. The harvester, sorter and other farm machinery equipment needed in the production and post-harvest production shall also be provided to the farmers to enhance their production yield from the existing 1.2 tons/ ha to 1.7 tons/ha under organic system of production and 1.5 to 2.5 tons/ha. under the conventional way of planting soybean. “Once all these interventions will be in place, we are optimistic that we could add up to the more than a thousand-hectare area planted with soybean nationwide,” Calumpit said.//

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 13 IS farmers see brighter prospects with DA’s corn model farm

iving farmers the necessary technologies in corn production to increase Gtheir yield while reducing their cost of production by means of farm mechanization, the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office I through the Corn Banner Program established its Corn Model Farm Project (CMFP) in the province of Ilocos Sur in partnership with the Ilocos Sur Corn Cluster Association, Inc. (ISCCA-I). As its basic component so that farmers would able to appreciate the showcased technologies in this corn model farm, a field day was conducted on March 29, 2019 where various stakeholders of the corn industry have attended including corn farmers and corn seeds and machineries suppliers. Established at Brgys. Tamorong in Caoayan and Nagpanaoan in Santa, Ilocos Sur on a 50-hectare area owned and managed by the members Management (SSNM) or the Nutrient RFO I. In tandem with the Agricultural of ISCCA-I, the CMFP showcased Expert Application, the corn model Training Institute, necessary trainings the production technologies of farm also served as a show window of on increasing production, farm both yellow and flint corn using the the corn production and post-harvest mechanization, post harvest operation varieties registered to National Seed machineries and equipment to improve and business management including Industry Council. the quality of corn in the model farm as strengthening of organization and Showcasing the technologies on compared to that of the farmers’ practice. other capacity-building activities were seed selection, planting and plant In showcasing the corn production conducted. spacing, water and pest management technologies, farm inputs such as In support to the irrigation facilities as well as fertilizer application fertilizers, soil ameliorants and bio- of the project, DA has also established using the Site Specific Nutrient control agents were provided by the DA- a solar power irrigation system

14 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Showcasing of machineries and equipment during the establishment of the Corn Model Farm in the province of Ilocos Sur.

An aerial view of the 50-hectare corn demo farm in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur.

Model Farm the relevance of the project in their corn production as they saw brighter prospects in producing corn. “Hindi lang namin nakita ang mga iba’t-ibang klase ng makinarya na magagamit namin upang mas mapagaan ang aming pagsasaka ng mais, kundi nabigyan kami ng pag-asa na lahat ay aangat sa pagkakaroon amounting to P4,860,074.00. A facility there was an increase in production of namin ng pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan that was constructed in support to the about 740 kgs. in yield and a reduction of na ipinapabatid sa amin ng clustering corn model farm project, it could serve P4,534.00 in the cost of producing corn. program ng DA,” Alibin said. around 10 hectares that could benefit at It was also revealed on the cost and Meanwhile, the Group of the least 48 farmer-association members. return analysis of the Corn Banner Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Giving updates as to how the farmers Program that for every peso invested in Division of DA-RFO I shall facilitate could benefit if the technologies corn production, a farmer could get a the market linkages between the showcased in the farm will be strictly maximum of P98.29. cluster-cooperators and the potential followed, the Corn Banner Program’s Mr. Mario Alibin, one of the farmer- market/buyer to assists farmers with Cost and Return Analysis on a hectare leaders of the ISCCA-I noted in his their marketing needs.// basis for corn production revealed that testimony as partner of the DA’s Corn

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 15 Director Eleazar lauded the efforts of DA-RFO I through its R&D Division under the leadership of RED Alviar and RTD for Research & Regulations Orlando Lorenzana in pursuing the research and development project to improve services provided for Ilocano farmers. Taking after what Dir. Alviar has DA-BAR Dir. Nicomedes Eleazar leads the groundbreaking ceremony together with RED Alviar and other DA-RFO 1 done in Cagayan Valley Region with key officials. the establishment of their state of the art Integrated Agricultural Research Laboratory that supports the R&D activities in Region 2, Director Eleazar is optimistic that this development shall bring fruitful research efforts in Ilocos Region under the leadership of Alviar. “Marami pang magagandang mangyari dito sa Ilocos Region. Sa loob ng 20 months na pamumuno ni Director Alviar, madami nang nangyari. Noon, parang ang dilim ng station, ngayon ay buhay na buhay. Sana ay patuloy ang mga pagbabagong The Crops Research and Development Center by 2020 ito and we are willing to support all these initiatives,” Eleazar said. Alviar in his message expressed his Groundbreaking ceremonies for gratitude to the BAR Director for investing in Ilocos Region with the establishment of Crops R&D Center held the Crops R&D Center. With this milestone of DA-RFO I under his stint, Alviar is also optimistic he Department of Agriculture- will benefit LGU extension workers, that more similar projects for R&D will Regional Field Office I (DA-RFO the academe, NGOs, farmers and other be established with the support of the I) through the Research and peoples’ organizations. Bureau Director. TDevelopment Division successfully Jointly funded by BAR and DA-RFO Meanwhile, Ms. Cathy Pastor, Senior conducted the groundbreaking ceremony I in an effort to modernize and upgrade Science Research Specialist, in behalf of for its P56M-worth Crops Research and research facilities relevant to DA’s goal of R&D Division Chief, Dr. Jovita Datuin Development Building located at DA- increasing productivity as well as income conveyed R&D Group's commitment to Pangasinan Research and Experiment of farmers in the region, this facility shall continually develop project proposals Center, Tebag, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan. also enhance linkages and networking of that focuses on cost-reducing and Held on March 28, 2019, the all stakeholders in the agriculture sector yield boosting technologies, as well as groundbreaking ceremony was led by the for sustainable development. mass propagate clean and disease-free Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) A three-story building which will tissue cultured planting materials for Director, Nicomedes Eleazar and DA-RFO house the seed processing and sensory distribution to intended beneficiaries. I’s Regional Executive Director Lucrecio evaluation lab situated on the first floor, Likewise, the R&D Group shall also R.Alviar, Jr. the tissue culture lab on the second enhance dissemination of research The Crops R&D Center is a state-of- floor and the audio-visual room on the outputs through techno-forum and other the-art and research-friendly facility third floor, construction of the edifice is related activities.// which will serve as a showcase window expected to complete in CY 2020. of technologies, quality cultivars that In his message during the event, BAR

16 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 EdSeCom members talk on iving updates on the Ilocos Region’s economic development situation and informing some of the latest Ilocos’ economic status Gprograms, projects and policies on agri- fishery, trade, tourism and investment related concerns, members of the Economic Development Sectoral Committee (EDSeCom) met on February 27 at the DA- RFO I 3rd Floor Conference Room, City of San Fernando, La Union. Chaired by Department of Agriculture- Regional Field Office I Regional Executive Director Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr., the EdSeCom is composed of 42 member-agencies as well as private and non-government institutions that are tasked to plan out programs, projects as well as policy reforms to further enhance the economic conditions in Ilocos region. In her discussion of one of the agenda of the meeting relative to the proposed creation of the Local Economic Investment Promotion Officer (LEIPO) in the Provincial Meanwhile, Ms. Analiza Ramos, Rice Bank and the Development Bank of the and City Governments, Ms. Mayanne Focal Person of DA-RFO I, presented details Philippines for the Expanded Rice Credit Flores, Senior Science Research Specialist of the Republic Act 11203 otherwise known Assistance that can be availed by farmers, of the National Economic Development as the Rice Trade Liberalization Law which cooperatives with minimal interest rates Authority (NEDA) sought support from the opens the country for rice importation. and minimum collateral requirements. group for the endorsement of the Regional One of the salient information that Ms. The remaining 10% or P1B shall be Development Council (RDC) to encourage Ramos shared during the meeting is the shared by TESDA (70% of the total P1B), Local Government Units to create a Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Agricultural Training Institute, PhilRice plantilla position for LEIPO. or RCEF – which provides funding support and PhilMech (10% each of the total P1B) According to Flores, the creation of LEIPO of the key interventions in rice production to improve their extension services by would enhance the economic, investment such as mechanization, seeds, financing teaching rice farmers modern rice farming and promotion programs of the LGUs and extension to improve productivity, techniques and technology transfer. especially if there will be an assigned officer competitiveness and income of the rice Meanwhile, to further update the who would focus solely on the tasks and farmers amounting to P10B annually for the EdSeCom members with the 5-year functions as LEIPO that would orchestrate next 6 years. Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization the development and conceptualization From these P10B, fifty percent (50%) Plan of the DA-RFO I, Ms. Doris Joy Garcia, of the LGU’s economic and investment of this amount shall be released to the Chief of the Planning, Monitoring and programs and activities. Philippine Center for Post-Harvest and Evaluation Division presented the agency’s “Right now, the LGUs are only designating Mechanization. “This shall be released plans, programs and projects for the next their LEIPOs and most of the time, they to provide eligible farmers and farmer five years. are not able to function well due to multi- organizations and associations, LGUs Mr. Sulpicio George Terrado, Jr. of tasking,” Flores said. and cooperatives farm machineries the National Food Authority (NFA) also Addressing this concern, the body and equipment to improve their rice discussed the NFA’s Palaya Procurement agreed to endorse the proposal to the RDC production,” Ramos said. Program while Engr. Gregorio de Vera of the for approval and to pilot this in the four Likewise, the Philippine Rice Research Department of Science and Technology- provinces and cities including first class Institute (PhilRice) will be given thirty- Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and municipalities that are capable of financing percent (30%) of the P10B to develop, Astronomical Administration (PAG-ASA) the needed funding requirements in propagate and promote inbred rice seeds provided updates on the El Niño Forecast implementing this proposal. while 10% will be released to the Land this year.//

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 17 10-ha hybrid rice demo IN farmers receive livestock; Multiplier Farm launched farm established in Baclig

municipality, upgrade the indigenous breeds “As of today, 20% pa lang ang of cattle, increase farmers’ income and provide nagtatanim ng Hybrid rice dito livelihood opportunities for the farmers. sa Region. Ang target ng DA ay Mr. Juanito Malazo, Jr. – Livestock Focal 50% dapat to be more sufficient Person who represented Regional Executive on rice para hindi na tayo mag- Director Dir. Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr. announced angkat,” stressed by Mr. Rodolfo that Pres. Rodrigo Duterte in particular has Estrada, Jr. - Senior Agriculturist ordered DA Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol to of the Rice Banner Program at propose a budget ten times to DA's current the Department of Agriculture budget. Regional Field Office 1 during “So we expect that we will be having ten the Hybrid Rice Derby on times increase in our budget,” Malaso said. February 1, 2019 at Brgy. Baclig, As part of the rehabilitation program for the “Actually, before we establish a project we Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. affected farmers of the Typhoon Ompong, the propose first to the mayors. Other mayors are The Hybrid Rice Derby and DA – RFO 1 thru the Provincial Government of sometimes reluctant to support the project as Provincial Techno Forum were Ilocos Norte distributed 1,200 heads of ducks, sometimes it is difficult to look for qualified attended by 17 cooperators 30 heads of native pigs and 60 heads of cattle recipients. But here in Solsona, when we in the Province of Ilocos Sur on March 6-7, 2019 in Laoag City and Solsona, proposed this Multiplier Farm, Mayor Calucag and participated by nine seed Ilocos Norte. agreed immediately and asked for the needed companies showcasing their During the distribution, Hon. Angelo Marcos requirements, then after two weeks they respective varieties namely; Barba – Vice Governor, Province of Ilocos were able to facilitate the requirements. So Seed Works (TH-82, US-88); Norte said that farmers in Ilocos Norte are immediately, the project came through,” he lucky to receive such livestock (intervention) added. because it is given for free. He added that as Meanwhile, Solsona Mayor Alexander A. DA Ilocos joins 15th Goat a counterpart, Hog Grower Pellets will be Calucag mentioned that the Agricultural Festival; launches cook provided by the Provincial Government of Training Institute (ATI) allocated 1.2M for the book for chevon Ilocos Norte for the recipients of native pigs. training on cattle raising and other related “The DA quickly provides project for our trainings in agriculture. He envisions the farmers. This distribution of ducks and native Multiplier Farm to become an Agri-tourism The Research Division of pigs is just one of their projects not only for the site soon. the Department of Agriculture farmers here in Ilocos Norte who were affected “Adu ti madamdamag kun nga um-umay Regional Field Office 1 (DA – by Typhoon Ompong but to all farmers in ditoy agbisbista ken umay da agpicture picture. RFO1) Pangasinan Research the province,” Barba said as he expressed his Isu nga kailangan lang nga adda ti ordinansa and Experiment Center (PREC), gratitude to DA. nga maaramid tapno agbalin isuna nga Tebag, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan On the second day, the Livestock Multiplier agritourism nga isu pay nga pangalaan iti pundo headed by Dr. Jovita Datuin Farm was launched in Barangay Nalasin, iti munisipyo ken agbalin nga livelihood iti umili,” – Chief, Research Division Solsona, Ilocos Norte hand-in-hand with the (I have heard that a lot of people are coming launched on March 22, 2019, the distribution of the 60 heads of cattle to the 60 over here taking pictures of the site and maybe cook book, “100 ways of cooking farmer beneficiaries. we could create an ordinance to transform it chevon” during the 15th Goat The Livestock Multiplier Farm is a project of into agri-tourism site as it can be a source of Festival in the Municipality of the Livestock Banner Program last 2017 and is additional fund for the municipality and can Balungao, Pangasinan. composed of Goat Multiplier Farm, Native Pig also become a livelihood for our constituents) “The project started when they Multiplier Farm, Free Range Chicken Multiplier Calucag said. saw the successful result of the Farm and Foreign Cattle Multiplier Farm. To date, the Multiplier Farm consists of 11 DA’s project which was the Goat The project is a joint effort of the heads of goats, 40 heads of native pigs, eight Technology Commercialization Municipality of Solsona and DA – RFO 1 that heads of foreign cattle for fattening, and 60 here in Balungao in the year aims to increase the cattle inventory of the heads native chicken.// 2015 to 2017. This project taught

18 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Bio Seed (BioRice 650, BioRice Meanwhile, Mr. Efren Rafanan NextGen project gives farmers new ZARAP, BioRice 453); Pioneer – Sangguniang Panlalawigan (PHB 79, PHB 77, PHB 73); Member of the Province of choices on seed varieties Syngenta (Frontline S6003, Ilocos Sur and Committee Frontline NK5017); Taipan on Agriculture Chairman “Napakalaking bagay ang adoptable varieties. Brand Farm Inc., (ADV 8112, encouraged the farmers to use nangyari sa buhay ko bilang Based on the performance PAC 801); Long Ping(LP205, hybrid rice with support on magsasaka sa pagkakaroon of the ten newly released LP357); SL Agritech Corporation farm mechanization program ng NextGen Project na inbred varieties tested in (SL-8H, SL-18H, SL-12H); Bayer offered by the Department of inilunsad ng DA. Bukod sa the project, the NSIC Rc442, (Arize AZ7888) and PhilRice Agriculture to lessen the work nakita ko ang mga bagong NSIC Rc238, NSIC Rc216 and (NSIC Rc204H). of the farmers. barayti ng palay, tumaas ng NSIC Rc438 were among The techno demo area “We are training farmers in 30 porsiento ang aking ani at the highest yielder with an covered a total of 10 hectares other countries but still we are bumaba ang aking gastos.” average yield of 6 tons per and allowed the farmers to importing rice to them, that is Mr. Rodrigo Nortares, hectare at 14% moisture learn management practices for why we need to practice more DA-RFO I’s NextGen Project content basing from the crop hybrid rice varieties. about technology,” emphasized Cooperator noted this in cut yield conducted by the In her message, Ms. Larina Rafanan. his testimony during the researchers. Zabala – Agricultural Programs The Hybrid Rice Derby is conduct of Field Day on the In determining the yield Coordinating Officer (APCO) of one of the strategies of the Accelerating Development performance of these newly Ilocos Sur said, “We have vision DA to attain a climate smart & Adoption of Next Gen released seed varieties, the in the Department of Agriculture agriculture vis-a-vis increase Varieties for the major researchers used the yield and that is to increase rice self- the yield of farmers in Region ecosystem held on March 5, and yield components such sufficiency around the region 1.// 2019 in Brgy. Bagut, Dingras, as length of panicle, number and to maintain the Ilocos Regio Ilocos Norte. of productive tillers, number as one of the top 10 producers of “Kung noon, gumagamit of field grains and the weight rice in the country.” ako ng 10-12 sakong abono of the 1,000 grains. kada ektarya, ngayon ay As to the farmers’ choice, naging 4-8 sako na lang ang the NSIC Rc216, NSIC aking nagamit. Higit sa lahat, Rc226 and NSIC Rc436 have the farmers and goat raisers the activity as it is the only goat nakapili na ako ng barayti emerged as the top three the proper slaughtering, goat festival being held in the country. ng palay na aking itatanim best varieties based on the production, among others,” said He also said that DA’s is set to at sana mabigyan kami ng result of cut crop conducted Ms. Cathy Pastor – Senior Science make the municipality as center mga barayting ito ng DA prior to the field day. Research Specialist II, the project for goat production. para gamitin sa susunod pa Likewise, the NSIC leader of the cook book. “If the DA will build a nucleus naming pagtatanim,” Mr. Rc490H, PSB Rc18 (Farmer's “Every year, a chevon cooking farm project for goat, you will Nortares said. Variety) and NSIC Rc222 contest is held during Goat be the first recipient,” Lorenzana In his briefing on the (Nat Check) were among the Festival. The 20 barangays in assured to the goat raisers of NextGen Project, Mr. top choices of the farmers Balungao are required to have five Balungao. Ireneo Mandac, DA-RFO I’s in Bgy. Bagut based on the recipes each. That is why, last year, The chevon cooking contest Senior Agriculturist based standing crop. we decided to produce a cook culminates the festival. Each in Ilocos Norte Research Having determined book containing the recipes with barangay presented one recipe and Experiment Center in the best three varieties, its procedures and ingredients as their entry by which Barangay Batac City, said that the Next the researchers would by each barangay. And this also Angayan Sur won first place with Gen Project involves the again conduct the same served as one counterpart of the their recipe Deep Friend Goat process of selecting newly activity in both dry and wet DA,” she added. Dumplings, Barangay Ragal as released varieties in the seasons through technology Meanwhile, Regional Technical second place with their recipe major ecosystems involving demonstrations and this Director (RTD) for Research and Sweet and Sour Chevon, and rainfed, irrigated, saline- time in cooperation with Regulations Orlando J. Lorenzana Barangay San Aurelio as third prone and submerged eco- the seed growers prior commended the Municipality of place with their recipe Bola-Bola systems using the criteria to recommendation for Balungao especially the farmers de Tercero.// set by the farmers in order commercialization.// and goat raisers for the success of to identify high yielding and

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 19 DA-Ilocos takes pride for being number 1

Sharing with pride and joy for being City, La Union. representatives thanked everyone for the FY 2018 Over-all Excellent Performer An award he received during the their support and pledged to continue Region in the entire Department National DA-wide Assessment on doing their best efforts if only to sustain of Agriculture (in terms of physical February 8, 2019 at the Bureau of Soils and the region's excellent performance. and financial accomplishments), top Water Management, Diliman, Quezon In his message, RED Alviar thanked performing Regional Executive Director City, all five major programs (Rice, the entire DA-workforce for their 100 Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr. presented the Corn, High Value Crops Development, percent commitment and support as plaques and certificates of recognition Livestock and Organic Programs) have he encouraged them to do their share in to all DA-RFO I employees on February consistently placed first in terms of sustaining the performance not only for 11 during the regular flag raising physical and financial accomplishment. this 2019 but for the succeeding years.// ceremonies held at the DA-RFO I 5th Given the opportunity to give a Floor Conference Room, San Fernando message, each major Banner Program

Malasakit Help Desk for Ilocos farmers launched

Employees of the Department of Agriculture Ilocos Region continue to strengthen their services, support, and love for the Ilocos farmers as the Malasakit Help Desk is launched in a simple ceremony coinciding with Ms. Jinnefer Pulmano of the Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division assists the first farmer-clients after the launching of the Malasakit Help Desk. Valentine’s Day, February 14. Farmers in the region can now direct their concerns and queries through the effective, and handled with ‘malasakit’ or registration and accreditation which DA-RFO1’s Malasakit Help Desk hotline genuine concern. should be processed immediately by all (072) 242 1045. The personnel assigned therefore in accreditation-giving offices and units In a memorandum signed by Secretary the Malasakit help desk will not only such as DA’s Regulatory Division; Agri- Emmanuel F. Piñol, the launching of the accept queries and facilitate requests profiling and accreditation which can be help desk is a realization of President but will also offer clients services which rendered by the Bureau of Soils and Water Rodrigo Duterte’s commitment to involve other government agencies and Management; access to credit facilities farmers and fisher folk in providing corporations. and crop insurance which can be availed speedy and inclusive assistance. Services imposed under the at the Agricultural Credit Policy Council The memo further explains that helpdesk are access to information and & Philippine Crop Insurance; scholarship under the help desk, all existing similar data which shall be provided by the programs by the DA’s Agricultural services of the agency will be combined concerned staff of all DA’s programs and Competitiveness Enhancement Fund; into one assistance counter and will projects, bureaus, attached agencies, and free trainings and seminars provided embody public service that is accessible, and corporations; application for by the Agricultural Training Institute.//

20 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 RTD Manipon and NMIS Dir. Mildred Saligan awards the certificate and key of turn-over to the key officials of Tayug, Pangasinan. relevance of the livestock production data in the formulation of future policies in the agriculture sector especially in the livestock industry. She also enjoined Tayug’s Municipal Engineer, Municipal Agriculturist and the Budget Officer to allocate for yearly maintenance fund for the facility in order to sustain its operation. DA turns-over Php13.5M- Meanwhile, Dr. Mildred Saligan, Acting Director of the National Meat Inspection worth facility to LGU Tayug Service commended the LGU of Tayug and the DA for having this project in the region and offered the technical assistance of NMIS The Department of Agriculture-Regional the Filipino people with available, accessible in the operation of the facility. Field Office I turned-over on January 25 the and affordable but also nutritious and safe She likewise encouraged the LGU of Tayug Php13.5M worth of “AA” Slaughterhouse and food for the people at all times. to work-out the documentary requirements Trading Center to the municipality of Tayug Established in 2014 under the Agri-Pinoy needed in the facility’s accreditation to operate in Pangasinan led by Regional Technical Trading Center Project, the P10M fund came as “AA” slaughterhouse giving the opportunity Director for Operations Erlinda F. Manipon from DA-AMAS and the P3.5M was the for LGU-Tayug to transfer the meat butchered representing DA-RFO I Regional Executive counterpart of the LGU-Tayug in the form of in the facility not only in Tayug but in other Director Lucrecio Alviar, Jr. and Sixth District lot where the project was established. neighboring towns in Pangasinan. Congresswoman Marlyn Primicias-Agabas RTD Erlinda F. Manipon emphasized She likewise encouraged the LGU Tayug representing Tayug Mayor Tyrone Agabas. in her message the essential role of the to have additional operators to be trained on The project is initiated by the Local Barangay Captains in promoting the facility meat inspection to sustain the operation of Government Unit of Tayug in collaboration to the people of Tayug in order to sustain the the facility. with the National Meat Inspection Service operation of the slaughterhouse. The “AA” Slaughterhouse and Trading (NMIS) and funded by the DA-Agribusiness She also encouraged the hog raisers and Facility in Tayug is one of two slaughterhouse and Marketing Assistance Service (DA- meat vendors to patronize the facility to facilities funded by DA-AMAS in the region. AMAS). The establishment of the project aims ensure the quality and safety of the meat they The other facility was established in Candon to realize DA’s mandate of not only providing are selling in the market while noting the City, Ilocos Sur.//

Movers MPC receives machine’s conformity to the Philippine He also mentioned about the newly crafted P6M-worth RPC National Standards (PNS), the multi-pass rice DA-NFA non-cash incentive scheme for mill has an output capacity of 1.052 tons per farmer cooperatives and organizations who To help minimize postharvest losses and hour and milling recovery of 66.27%. would deliver their rice to NFA. improve farmers’ quality of rice produced Mr. Dante Pagal, Movers MPC Chairperson, “We want to add these interventions through modern and efficient milling emotionally expressed his gratitude to RED given to you but in one condition, sell your facilities, the Department of Agriculture Lucrecio Alviar because of the completion of produce to NFA, if you want a machinery like Regional Field Office I awarded a P6-M-worth the project. He also made a commitment to a combine harvester, there is a condition, you Rice Processing Center (RPC) to the Movers do their best in helping their co-farmers as to have no counterpart, just sell your palay to Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Calapugan, how the government helped them through its NFA. NFA now buys palay at P20.70 per kilo Natividad, Pangasinan on March 14, 2019. support and services. including the incentive.” The RPC is comprised of multi-pass rice On the other hand, Alviar told coop “Nakabenta na kayo, may premyo pa kayo,” mill with rice hull bin, portable moisture members that the DA is willing to provide he added. meter for rice and corn equipped with one- support to them however he emphasized that Aside from the RPC, an additional 1-M ton capacity weighing scale. they must also compensate what the DA has pesos was also awarded to Movers MPC Basing from the conducted performance provided for their cooperative for it to grow members which will serve as their initial test on January 31, 2019, to determine the faster and so to benefit more farmers. capital.//

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 21 MR. JOEY RAMOS

Region I’s nominee to the Search for Outstanding Seed Innovator - Seed Grower Category

he Search for Outstanding Seed industry players in the realization of its Evaluation Committee is conducting Innovator of the BPI-National goals and objectives after 25 years of field validation among the top three Seed Industry Council (NSIC) implementation. shortlisted entries submitted by the Tis in line with the Republic Act 7308 Composed of three categories, Regional Field Offices in coordination otherwise known as the Seed Industry namely: (1) Breeding Institution, (2) with the Regional Field Offices of the Development Act of 1992. This Law Seed Grower, and (3) Plant Nursery BPI-National Seed Quality Control requires the NSIC to recognize the Operator; the Search Committee Services. significant contributions of the key led by the Chairman of the National As Ilocos Region’s entry in the Seed

22 DAMAG-AGRI 1ST QUARTER 2019 Twelve years after being named as the country’s Gawad Saka Most Outstanding Rice Farmer in 2002, Mr. Joey Ramos of Brgy. Tay-ac, Rosario La Union is again aspiring for another title – this time as the country’s Most Outstanding Seed Grower through the Bureau of Plant and Industry’s (BPI’s) Search for Outstanding Seed Innovator.

the three other entries from Central eight (8) hectare farm-lot, (partially Luzon, Cagayan Valley and the Bicol owned and tenanted), he plants at Region. Each major Island shall declare three croppings for a year. one winner. The quality of seed is his foremost Having submitted all the pertinent consideration in having better requirements of the search including rice yield and production, and Mr. his portfolio as seed grower, Mr. Ramos’ ingenuity earned him his Ramos was evaluated based on his credibility as rice seed producer. management practices in the farm, Having established his name as his seed production record, seed credible seed grower in the region, he certification record, the cost and return always makes sure that his produce analysis of his farm enterprises as well will pass the rigid standards and as his involvement in the community requirements for rice certification that has immensely contributed in and accreditation. the development of seed production Thus, his produce has been sought industry. after by many farmers in need of As a seasoned seed grower, his major seed materials, leaving him secured consideration in selecting the rice and confident in marketing his rice Grower Category, Mr. Ramos has varieties he grows is to look into the seeds. qualified for field validation after having seed varieties most preferred by the Waiting for the result of the passed the major qualification as an farmers and the DA who are buying his Search, Mr. Ramos is more than active accredited Filipino seed grower produce. hopeful that he could bring home from 2011 to 2017. Being a member of Among the registered seed varieties the bacon. Should he succeed as the National Federation of Seed Grower he produces include: NSIC Rc160, NSIC the winner, he will receive from BPI- Cooperative and a non-government Rc216, NSIC Rc300 and NSIC Rc358. NSIC a cash prize of P50,000.00 and employee, he is evaluated along with Using all these varieties planted in his a Plaque of Recognition.//

1ST QUARTER 2019 DAMAG-AGRI 23 National Women’s Month Celebration | March 2019 #Wewomen make change work for