CAF studes explore cost reducing rice production through Lakbay Palay

To highlight rice cultivation innovations that are both cost-effective and yield-enhancing, the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) invited 15 BUeños from the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) for this year’s Lakbay Palay dubbed, “Bukid Tipid Tips, Subukan!” at Ligao City, on October 11, 2022.

Along with the guidance of Prof. Aileen C. Malo, CAF faculty member, including the BUeño participants taking BS Agriculture major in Agricultural Extension and major in Crop Sciences, 392 attendees from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, Masbate, and Northern Samar were present. As an annual activity, this also provides farmers and extension personnel a forum for discussion. The participants learned about Inbred and Hybrid Rice Varieties and Characteristics, Abonong Swak, and Pest Management through its Bukid Tipid Tips Tekno Klinik Sessions, according to the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) website.

“This was our first tour since first year. We are happy kasi we were able to experience such activity most especially po na graduating na kami. Also, ang dami pong prominent speakers and agri-related company present during the field day,” Kristine Prieto said, one of the CAF student participants.

Additionally, DA V discussed their projects that will increase agricultural production and farmers' revenue. Throughout the activity, they also promoted a number of banner initiatives, including the distribution of seeds, discount coupons for fertilizer, financial aid, gasoline subsidies, and the provision of agricultural equipment. | by Arnold C. Noda, CPRO

Photo courtesy of the Bicol University Society of Agricultural Sciences Students Facebook page