CEBU CITY | August 01, 2022 – FPA Region VII conducted an orientation on the Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) to 48 sweet corn and vegetable farmers in Sitio Luyo, Barangay Adlaon, Cebu City, on July 27, 2022.

Regional Officer (RO) Arnulfo Arausa, Jr. gave an overview of the activity and stressed the importance of BFS and how it can minimize production costs while improving crop quality.

BFS is a program that includes the FPA and other DA agencies involved in farming. The idea of the program is to institutionalize the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers and other forms of strategies (i.e., green manuring or cover cropping, individual farm soil fertility maps, diversifying and improving cropping system, etc.) to attain the maximum potential of farmlands while maintaining soil structure and fertility.

Provincial Officer (PO) Andy Cornell Bornillo emphasized the concept of 4Rs in fertilization: Right Source, Right Placement, Right Amount, and Right Rate to help enhance soil health and productivity, prevent the decline in soil fertility, and improve fertilizer availability and costs.

On the other hand, PO Sunday Flores discussed the Agency’s mandates and functions. PO Flores also reminded the farmers that they should buy fertilizers and pesticides from the FPA licensed dealers only to ensure the quality of the product.

Lastly, PO Jesus Muring shared the proper and safe handling of pesticides. “Pesticides help us produce more food and reduce food waste. However, it can be dangerous if misused,” PO Muring said. ###