Camarines Sur | October 22, 2024 — In response to a recent pesticide poisoning incident, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA)—Bicol, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture—Regional Field Office 5 (DA-RFO5) and local government units, conducted Pesticide Safe Use Training for farmers in Barangay Buluang, Baao, and Barangay Santicon, Polangui, on October 17-18, 2024.

The training, which aimed to prevent future incidents and promote the responsible use of pesticides, equipped farmers with essential knowledge on the safe handling, storage, and application of these chemicals. Key topics covered included the management of pesticide poisoning, the correct interpretation of product labels, and the critical importance of purchasing only FPA-registered products. Ninety farmers appreciated the practical insights, recognizing the training’s role in safeguarding their health and enhancing their farming practices.

Regional Officer (RO) Mr. Gabriel B. Atole stressed the importance of proper pesticide use, highlighting that while these chemicals are vital for crop protection, they pose significant health risks when mishandled. He reminded the farmers that pesticides are inherently hazardous and must be used carefully to avoid harmful exposure.

Prior to the training, on October 15-16, 2024, FPA-Bicol conducted the Accredited Safety Dispenser (ASD) training in Pili, Camarines Sur, attended by 30 participants from Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Albay. 

Engr. Christopher M. Nuñez, FPA Provincial Officer of Camarines Sur, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of safety and regulatory compliance in agricultural practices. RO Atole further explained that accredited safety dispensers are crucial in maintaining the integrity of fertilizer and pesticide distribution, ensuring that products are handled and applied following FPA standards.

These training initiatives are part of FPA’s ongoing commitment to promoting agricultural safety and are expected to significantly enhance the protection of farmers and their communities in the Bicol region. Mr. Victor Cortez, Agriculturist II of the Baao Municipal Agriculture Office, expressed his gratitude for the comprehensive training.

The training team consisted of Regional Officer Mr. Gabriel B. Atole, FPA-Albay Provincial Officer Mr. Winsor L. Nueva, FPA-Camarines Sur I, and Catanduanes Provincial Officer Engr. Christopher M. Nuñez, FPA-Camarines Sur II Provincial Officer Ms. Rosie T. Malazar, FPA-Sorsogon Provincial Officer Engr. Ardon Ryan E. Nee-Estuye, and FPA-Masbate Provincial Officer Mr. Rodny P. Conda.  ###

Written by: Gabriel B. Atole

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