ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY | March 13-14, 2023 – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority Region IX discussed the Presidential Decree 1144 to more than 100 rice farmers during the Rice Information Caravan under the Rice Banner Program on March 13-14, 2023, in Tungawan and Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Regional Officer (RO) Alex Paalisbo, Provincial Officers (PO) Paulyne Kim Alfuente, and Charlie Limbag elaborated on the different functions and services of the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA). They also taught the farmers the proper and effective use of pesticide products to minimize their possible hazards while maximizing their potential for a good harvest.

During the open forum, the team explained the reasons for the increasing prices of fertilizers. They explained that the global fertilizer crisis was due to the increasing prices of fuel, the Ukraine-Russian conflict, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, most fertilizer exporting countries prioritize their local distribution over exportation.

The Information Caravan was organized by DA-RFO IX, which aimed to update programs that rice farmers could benefit from. Other agencies such as DA Soils Laboratory, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and the National Food Authority (NFA) attended the activity as well. ###