Philippines : CamSur farmers use bio-fertilizers to increase rice production
Farmers in Camarines Sur are shifting to bio-fertilizers as a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. Supported by the Department of Agriculture-Bicol, the initiative has boosted rice yields and reduced input costs. Over 200 farmers received free bio-fertilizers and training. Local farmers report higher income and better crop health, highlighting bio-fertilizers’ role in sustainable rice production.
NAGA CITY, Camarines Sur (PIA)—Farmers in Camarines Sur are turning to bio-fertilizers as a cheaper alternative to inorganic fertilizers in order to provide the nutrients essential for cultivating rice, a staple food for Filipino consumers.
Tessie San Joaquin from the Maymatan Farmers’ Multi-purpose Cooperative in Goa, Camarines Sur, shared that through the use of bio-fertilizers, they were able to reduce expenses and generate higher income during the last cropping season.
San Joaquin said they previously received free bio-fertilizers from the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Bicol, along with free yellow corn seeds and other agricultural inputs.
“Bio-fertilizers are cheaper than inorganic ones, more effective, and chemical-free, making them safe for consumption,” she said.
This quarter, she and her husband harvested 146 sacks of rice from their five-hectare farm, a significant increase from last year’s harvest of only 95 sacks.
The Department of Agriculture Bicol conducts techno-demo and distribution of agricultural inputs and biofertilizers to over 200 farmers across the region at the DA Central Bicol Experiment Station’s rice production area in Pili. Photos courtesy of DA Bicol
“Malaking tulong na mabawasan ang mga expenses namin at mapataas ang aming net income para sa aming araw-araw na gastusin, lalo na sa pagpapaaral sa aming mga anak,” she added.
On Friday, the DA-Bicol distributed over P400,000 worth of agricultural inputs, including liters of foliar fertilizers (bio-fertilizers), laminated sacks, and raffle knapsack sprayers, to 226 farmers who participated in a techno-demonstration in Pili, Camarines Sur.
According to Earl Vincent Vegas, the DA Bicol Rice Program focal person, farmers observed the proper application of at least 21 types of bio-fertilizers and 10 ameliorant products at the DA Central Bicol Experiment Station’s rice production area in Pili.
Vegas stated that this initiative is part of the department’s effort to promote sustainable and cost-efficient rice production practices among farmers.
“The ameliorant technologies enhance the soil’s ability to absorb nutrients, making it more fertile. The use of organic fertilizers reduces production costs for farmers while enabling higher yields,” he explained.
Ernesto Escalante Jr., a farmer from Canaman, Camarines Sur, also reported a significant increase in income after switching to the bio-fertilizers he recently received for free from DA Bicol.
“The Filipino-made organic fertilizers are the most effective for my crops. I apply them every 10 days or at least three times before the flowering stage, during which the leaves are lush and green,” he said.
“Previously, I spent more on granular inorganic fertilizers. However, I find it more beneficial to use bio-fertilizers. My crops are thriving while keeping labor and harvest costs low,” he added. (PIA Bicol)
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Source : PIA
