BOHOL | October 25, 2022 – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Region 7 conducted a series of training on safe and judicious use of fertilizer and pesticide (F/P) to the three established Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) villages in Brgy. Buenos Aires, Carmen, Brgy. Paraiso, Mabini and Brgy. Taming, Danao in the province of Bohol last October 19-21, 2022.

During the training, Regional Officer Arnulfo Arausa, Jr. provided updates on the fertilizer price situation in the market. He then stressed the importance of adopting the Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) by combining the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers to cut the cost of production while improving soil condition and quality of crops. The said strategy uses 4rs in Nutrient Stewardship concept: Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time and Right Place.

Provincial Officer (PO) Andy Cornell Bornillo refreshed the participants on the agency’s mission, mandate, scope of activities, powers and functions and shared valuable information on pesticide general information.

On the other hand, PO Jesus Muring discussed the proper and safe handling of pesticide and reminded the participants of the possible dangers if misused and handled incorrectly. He emphasized the importance of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) while handling pesticide.

In addition, PO Muring encouraged them to adopt the Integrated Pest Management Principles in crop production. The Integrated pest management (IPM) approach combines the use of biological, cultural and chemical practices to control insect pests.

FPA Region VII also gave out informational materials such as Gabay sa Tamang Paggamit ng Abono at Pestisidyo to the participants for additional references.

This training was in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture 7 and Bohol Agricultural Promotion Center thru Adoption and Mitigation Initiatives in Agriculture (AMIA) Program which aimed to increase the farmers’ level of awareness in the proper and responsible use of F/P. Ninety-eight (98) participants were in attendance. ###