Luna, Apayao – In pursuance of the Department of Agriculture’s goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency amid the nation’s rapidly increasing population, the DA-CAR together with the DA-ATI CAR, Philrice, and BPI-NSQS CAR established a “University without Walls” for farmers in Luna, Apayao.
Through this intervention, a season-long training on hybrid rice seed accreditation, production, and certification for seed growers and seed inspectors of Apayao was undertaken. This training program intensified hybrid rice seed production and utilization by enhancing the knowledge and skills of the farmers through lectures and hands-on training in the field.
The training was concluded December 8, 2017, with 19 farmer seed growers who were assisted by 7 seed inspectors in completing their course.
The graduates received their certificates in the presence of Narciso Edillo, Regional Executive Director for Cordillera, Hon. Josephine M. Bangsil, Municipal Mayor of Luna town, Dr. Danilo P. Daguio, OIC-Regional Technical Director for Operations, Prudencio Bosing, Provincial Agriculturist, Engr. Leo C. Javier, Branch Manager, Philrice Isabela, and Ms. Myrna B. Sta. Maria TCS-1 of ATI-CAR.
During the graduation ceremonies, Mayor Josephine Bangsil expressed her gratitude for the establishment of the “University without Walls” in her town. She was glad that after being trained, “the farmers will not have to go to Nueva Ecija, Isabela or Ilocos to buy hybrid rice seedlings. “The farmer graduates shall be able to continuously supply high quality seeds for the requirement of their fellow farmers in Apayao, and even other farmers in the region, she said.
Congratulations kadagit ag graduar. Salamat ta inyumay yo ti kastoy, director. In time, Datayun to ti agilako” she added.**tna
