On March 26, 2025, the farmers of Brgy. Dipili, Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur gathered for the Adaptive Balanced Fertilization Strategy (ABFS) Field Day. The techno-demo, implemented by the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) in collaboration with the DA – Regional Field Office IX (RFO IX), the Sibuguey Valley Irrigation System Office (SVISO), and the Municipal Agriculture Office of Bayog, aim to promote sustainable and efficient fertilization practices.

A total of 78 farmers from the Di-Pore Irrigators Association benefited from the ABFS techno-demo, which covered 100 hectares of farmland. During the event, partner agencies emphasized the critical role of farmers in increasing rice production while maintaining soil health for sustainable agriculture. 

0.9.142
default

Present to inspire and support the farmers were:

  • Mr. Bertolio P. Arellano – BSWM Soil and Water Access Team (SWAT) Leader for Region IX
  • Mr. Richen Balarote – Technical Staff, SVISO
  • Mr. Walter B. Soriano – OIC, Municipal Agriculture Office, Bayog
  • Mr. Ray Anthony M. Credo – DA RFO IX Rice Program Focal
default

Farmers also shared their experiences in implementing the ABFS, which integrates both organic and inorganic fertilizers while ensuring the right fertilizer application in the correct amount and at the right time. 

Testimonials were provided by the following farmers:

  • Mr. Arman Asuprado
  • Mr. Nilo Gallentes
  • Mr. William Pantinopli
  • Mr. Robert Saguin
  • Mr. Oliver Asuprado
  • Ms. Delmar Barwa
default

Despite challenges such as pest infestations, including rats and armyworms, the farmers reported an increase in yield, thus higher profit. They observed that during this cropping season, their rice sacks were heavier than usual, and the grains were fuller, indicating improved productivity due to the ABFS approach.

The success of this initiative highlights the importance of proper fertilization techniques and the resilience of farmers in overcoming agricultural challenges while ensuring sustainable and profitable farming practices.

The Field Day was a success with the combined facilitation of technical staff from the BSWM – Mr. Michael Alexis T. Nota, Mr. Roger Principe, Mr. Farley Conde, Ms. Emelyn Sumusog, Mr. Lourenz Biñas, Ms. Kristine Castillon, Ms. Ana Talavera, Mr. Alwin Rafael, Mr. Paul Bryan Pabillaran, Mr. Daryll Dulay, Mr. Ronebert Maangangot, Mr. Bryan Manait,, and staff from Bayog Municipal Agriculture Office -Ms. Mylene Pahente and team.

(Michael Alexis T. Nota, GSITD)

#BagongPilipinas

#ParaSaMasaganangBagongPilipinas

#DABSWM

#BSWMBagongPilipinas