LOS BAŇOS, Laguna - Twenty-four (24) Rice Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) of Cavite, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon participated in the “Refresher Course on Rice Production Technology” thru blended learning held on August 24 to 28, 2020. The training course aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of participants on PalayCheck System Technology Updates and acquaint them on the implementation procedures of the RCEF Farmer Field School. It was spearheaded by Partnership and Accreditation Services Section (PASS) of ATI IV-A.

During the five-day refresher course, various topics on rice production and post production technologies and DA rice program updates were presented. Topics were composed of Philippine and Regional Rice Industry Situation, Understanding RCEF and implications to rice farmers, PalayCheck System Updates (KeyCheck 1 to 9) and the FFS on Production of High Quality Inbred Rice Seed and Seed Certification and Farm Mechanization Training Curriculum.

PhilRice Los Baños technical staff namely, Ms. Virginia Ompad, Ms. Kristina Labita, Ms. Michelle Quimbo, Mr. Mel Anthony Talavera and Mr. Gabrel Flancia served as resource persons in the training. During the closing program, Engr. Arnel de Mesa (Regional Executive Director of DA RFO IVA), shared his gratitude and warm greetings to the participants, lauding their efforts to learn despite the challenging time. The participants vowed to share the learnings to rice farmers in their communities.