The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) recently conducted two batches of Training on Corn Production and Postharvest Technology last March 13-14, 2024 at Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte and May 23-24, 2024 at Basud, Camarines Noorte. These two-day sessions were designed to enhance the skills of corn farmers from Basud and Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte, which has areas identified for potential expansion in corn production. The training was led by the team from OPAg-Crops Division led by Provincial Corn Coordinator Mr. Ryan I. Villaflores with Mr. Ronnie R. Asis, Mr. Ador Sanchez, Ms. Brenda R. Meneses, Engr. Jay Canaria, Engr. Ernie John Meneses from PABEO, and Municipal Corn Coordinators Mr. Jayrald Lladones and Mr. Hector Magana. The objective of the training was to equip farmers with technical knowledge and practical skills in modern corn production technologies, fostering improved agricultural practices and potentially increasing corn productivity.
The trainings were benefitted by 54 (26 male and 28 female) corn farmers who are willing to engage on corn production, since the farmers were informed about the good market demand for corn and its potential to increase their income. The training is packed with essential topics the farmers need for basic corn production, including pre-planting activities which are crucial for corn production as they ensure optimal site and seed selection, maintain genetic purity, and establish a strong foundation for healthy crop growth and high yields. Cultural management practices were also discussed which are crucial in corn production as they optimize plant health, improve yields, and enhance resistance to pests and diseases, this includes planting methods, optimal plant spacing, water management, cultivation, weed management, and integrated pest management with emphasis on Fall Army Worm (FAW). Additionally, participants engaged in hands-on activities such as soil sample collection and site visitation. The training further covered integrated nutrient management, harvesting and postharvest technologies, as well as proper storage, cost and return analysis and marketing strategies.
These components were aimed to provide farmers with a holistic understanding of modern corn production, ensuring they are well-equipped to improve yields and increase profitability. As the training ended, the farmers from Sta. Elena and Basud expressed their appreciation to the training team. They emphasized the invaluable knowledge and practical skills they acquired, highlighting the profound impact the training had on their future farming practices.
The Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, through the Office OPAg, is committed to agricultural development in the province. These trainings are key strategy aimed to help small farmers by improving their production and providing sustainable livelihoods in the long term.