IGUIG, CAGAYAN | March 2, 2023 – 45 individuals attended the Accredited Safety Dispenser (ASD) training conducted by the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Cagayan Valley last March 1-2, 2023, at DA-SCRC, Minanga, Iguig, Cagayan.

The participants were dealers caught selling fertilizer and pesticide (F/P) products without accreditation during inspections and other aspiring individuals who wanted to venture into F/P dealerships from different municipalities of Cagayan, Quirino, and Isabela.

As a prerequisite in securing a license to operate, the ASD training focuses on safe handling, general information on F/P products, poisoning, first aid management, and regulations administered by FPA.

“I want to emphasize that this training will serve as a tool for you to educate our farmers. You are our partners, our frontliners in helping the farmers,” said Regional Officer (RO) Leonardo Bangad during his opening message.

Provincial Officer (PO) Henry Cayaban, Jr. emphasized the importance of reading the pesticide labels and awareness of knowing the expiry date of pesticide products. He taught them to look for the manufacturing date if the expiry date is not imprinted on the label.

Moreover, a representative from Corteva Agriscience discussed the pesticide mode of action and insect resistance management with the participants.

Participants then raised concerns about fake and unregistered F/P products. As a response, PO Roselle Anne Jose informed that the agency is closely monitoring the establishments, but they may report suspicious products circulating in the market.

After the discussion, an examination was given to the participants for their certificate of attendance. The results of the exam will be posted in the coming days. ###