Farmers in Laguna and Quezon have shown preference for the 500 series varieties, particularly NSIC Rc 512 and Rc 508, which were distributed by the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program.
In RCEF technology demonstration sites called PalaySikatan, rice growers from Nagcarlan, Laguna, praised NSIC Rc 512 for its high tiller count, sturdiness, and disease resistance.
Meanwhile, farmers in Infanta, Quezon, preferred NSIC Rc 508 for its elongated grains and higher yield, averaging 6.6t/ha for transplanting and 6.3t/ha for direct-seeding.
Oligario Caponpon from Nagcarlan, Laguna, said that PalaySikatan helps farmers identify the rice varieties suited in their locality, especially that some rice growers are hesitant to try new varieties.
“Demo sites serve as an opportunity to introduce and compare these new varieties, which lead to the use of these varieties next planting season,” he said.
Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in Los Baños has established eight PalaySikatan sites and conducted four field walks in Laguna and Quezon. (DA-PhilRice, Rhea Grace Malapascua)
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