May 29, 2025 | Quezon City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) conducted a three-day training on Applied Geotagging Technology (AGT) and Geographic Information System (GIS) from May 27 to 29, 2025.

The training aimed to strengthen the agency’s monitoring and regulatory functions by equipping personnel with practical skills in geospatial technologies, particularly for tracking and supervising fertilizer and pesticide handlers nationwide.

The training was attended by personnel from the operating units at the Central Office and the Regional Field Units (RFUs). Participants held diverse technical positions such as Agriculturists, Provincial Officers, Chemists, Information System Analysts, Planning Officers, and Administrative staff—all integral to the agency’s operational mandates.

Participants were introduced to AGT and GIS concepts through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Modules included the use of the DA-GeoCamera mobile application, mapping through Google Maps, and basic training on GPS technology and Quantum GIS software.

A key component of the training was a field application, where five participant teams were deployed to various government sites in Quezon City to capture geotagged images using mobile devices. This exercise enabled real-time application of geospatial methods and reinforced collaborative fieldwork skills.

To sustain and deepen technical proficiency, the FPA identified next steps including: advanced GIS training, creation of video-based learning materials, enhanced central-regional coordination, and the establishment of a dedicated support system for ongoing geomapping initiatives. The integration of real-world datasets into future sessions was also recommended to enhance realism and relevance.

“This training marks another milestone in FPA’s digital transformation,” said FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada. “By empowering our personnel with modern tools, we are improving our ability to deliver responsive, transparent, and data-driven public service to Filipino farmers and agri-businesses.”

Writer: Edward Calapatia

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team