Farmers’ Field Day showcases rapid composting technology

by Arlene Edna V. La Vega

San Jose, Antique (27 August) — A Farmer field day in Brgy. Odiong, Sibalom, Antique showcased the Modified Production Farms (MRCTPF) wherein farmers are taught the judicious use of chemical fertilizers in combination with organic fertilizers and compost from farm and home wastes.

The Rapid Composting Technology will also help farmers increased their production as well as the level of their income.

More than 200 farmers who attended the field day demo with the theme, “Rice Composting and Nutrient Recycling: Balik–Pataba sa Bukirin”.

Mr. Apolinario Tagle, a farmer cooperator in his testimony emphasized that practicing MRC not only decreases fertilizer usage but ensures increased sustainability of farm nutrients thus increased in production. The zero fertilizer must be achieved to preserve the farm nutrients which are basic needs of the plants.

Governor Salvacion Z. Perez told the farmers during the program that the Antiqueños should go with organic farming since it is good for the health. Further she said that supporting agricultural sector of the province is among the priorities of her administration.

DA- Chief for Soils Laboratory Helen Maquiling stressed that the program must be sustained with the support of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA).

Also present during the program were Provincial Board Members Dante Beriong and Fernando Corvera, Mr. Nicolasito S. Calawag (Prov’l. Agriculturist), Ms. Helen Maquiling (Chief, Soils Laboratory –DA –RFU VI), Mr. Eric Lotilla (ABC President of Sibalom)), Leo Retamar (Regional Soils & Water Coordinator- Reg. VI).

The activity was also supported by the Local Government Unit of Sibalom, Antique. (PIA)