SILANG, CAVITE | September 21, 2022 – Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority Provincial Officer (FPA PO) Allan Jade Rojo promoted the implementation of the Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) as a resource speaker during the Capability Enhancement Course for Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) at Teofely Nature Farm, Silang, Cavite last September 19-22, 2022.

In his discussion, PO Rojo emphasized that BFS was a program initiated by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and aimed for the use of combined organic and inorganic inputs and other forms of strategy to attain the maximum potential of farmlands while promoting balanced fertilization in maintaining soil fertility.

He also pointed out the need to apply the 4Rs in Fertilization: Right Source, Right Placement, Right Amount, and Right Rate.

“This shall enhance soil health and productivity, prevent the decline in soil fertility, and improve fertilizer availability while minimizing the cost of production,” he said.

Additionally, PO Rojo highlighted the four (4) strategies in BFS:

1. Soil Testing and Soil Fertility Map; 

2. Integrated Nutrient Management;

3. Cropping System, and;

4. Fertilizer Best Management Practices.

As for the concerns with the increasing prices of fertilizers, PO Rojo explained that the Philippines is highly dependent on importation and the increase in petroleum products prices were factors influencing the price. Additionally, the competency in getting supplies is quite high because most fertilizer producers prioritized their local distribution over exportation.

During the training, PO Rojo also discussed the functions of FPA and presented the list of fertilizer handlers with suspension orders on their License to Operate (LTO). He asked for the help of AEWs and the member agencies to disseminate the information to the farmers.

The said training focused on approaches to Integrated Nutrient Management for rice and was conducted by Agricultural Training Institute IV-A (ATI IV-A). 25 AEWs from DA Regional Field Office IV-A and attached agencies attended the course. ###