Hinunangan Rice Farmers Complete Training on Balanced Fertilization Strategy
Rice farmers from the municipality of Hinunangan have completed a three-day training on Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) held from September 3 to 5, 2025, at the Southern Leyte State University–Hinunangan Campus (SLSU-HC). The activity, aligned with the national thrust toward sustainable agriculture, equipped participants with science-based techniques to boost productivity, protect soil health, and promote responsible nutrient management in one of Southern Leyte’s major rice-producing areas.
The Agricultural Training Institute organized the training–Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC 8) in partnership with SLSU-HC and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Hinunangan, known as the rice granary of Southern Leyte. The initiative aimed to improve rice productivity, enhance soil health, and promote climate-resilient nutrient management.
SLSU-HC Campus Director Mr. Wade C. Lim formally opened the program, highlighting the university’s commitment to advancing agricultural development through education and extension services. He was joined by Dr. Adelfa Diola, Director of Extension Services, and Municipal Agriculturist Kathleen V. Capapas, DVM, who both underscored the importance of farmer training in ensuring food security for local communities.
The sessions were facilitated by ATI-RTC 8 specialists, with Ms. Fe Rovelyn H. Ruales leading the expectation-setting activities, and Ms. Junalyn F. Palco, Training Specialist I, providing an overview of the course. Thematic inputs included Gender in Development by Ms. Leonisa H. Cupat, Department Head for Environmental Science, and technical discussions on BFS and nutrient management techniques by Ms. Maria Helen P. Seco, a registered agriculturist.
Over the course of the program, farmers participated in a combination of lectures, group workshops, and field demonstrations. The Balanced Fertilization Strategy, which integrates the use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers based on soil and crop requirements, was emphasized as a key tool to:
- Increase rice yield and quality;
- Reduce dependence on synthetic inputs;
- Sustain soil fertility; and
- Foster environmentally responsible farming practices.
Participants were also introduced to site-specific nutrient management and climate-smart agricultural technologies tailored for rice production in Hinunangan.
During the closing ceremony, Hon. Aida T. Bulingit, Chair of the SB Committee on Agriculture, and Director Lim encouraged farmers to apply their learnings in their respective communities. Selected participants shared personal testimonies, noting the practical value of the training in improving their day-to-day farming practices.
Certificates of participation were awarded, and the training synthesis was delivered by Ms. Palco, who summarized key takeaways and urged farmers to serve as local advocates of science-based farming practices. Closing remarks were given by Dr. Fe Alin T. Dalangin, Extension Services Coordinator of SLSU-HC, who stressed the significance of partnerships between farmers, government agencies, and academic institutions in promoting agricultural sustainability.
This initiative directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13: Climate Action, aligning local action with national and global priorities.
With strengthened capacities and renewed commitment, Hinunangan’s rice farmers are now better equipped to pursue farming methods that are not only productive but also resilient and sustainable.
