Cheryl Bundalian, an instructor from Southern Luzon State University, said that the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund – Rice Extension Service Program (RCEF-RESP) Training of Trainers helped enhance her nutrient management knowledge through the hands-on application of the Minus One Element Technique (MOET).

“In theory, MOET has always been part of our class discussions. However, my students and I lack practical experience in it. So I am glad that the training included a hands-on activity as I was able to try it in actuality for the first time,” she said.

Cheryl added that she plans to conduct the same activities she learned from the training once face-to-face classes resume. “Once the situation permits, I hope to conduct the MOET activity in my class. It is essential for my students to have the practical experience to better know and understand how it works in the field,” she said.

Nevertheless, the instructor said that she already shared her learnings on available Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-based applications such as the Binhing Palay app and MOET app with her students. “I told them about these applications, especially the Binhing Palay app! It’s very convenient because it immediately tells us the suitable rice variety based on an area’s physical conditions. This will be very beneficial to our farmers,” she said.

The RCEF-Extension Program is a component of Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication Law, which allots P10 billion in funds yearly to support rice farmers. The program is being implemented by Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice), Department of Agriculture-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PHilMech), Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), and Technical Education And Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in partnership with local government units and other intermediaries. (DA-PhilRice Los Baños, FB)