To capacitate the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) knowledge, and skills on different technologies in corn farming particularly on the proper management of Fall Army Worm (FAW), the Agricultural Training Institute in MiMaRoPa conducted its first batch of “Training of Trainers (TOT) on Corn Production Technologies: Management of Fall Army Worm” at Brgy. Tambong, Gloria, Oriental Mindoro on March 30 – April 1, 2022.

The three-day training highlighted the discussions on the status of FAW incidence in the Philippines, prevention, control and management practices, suppression techniques, and methods for FAW.

Mr. Solo Arman Mercene of the DA-Integrated Laboratory Division MiMaRoPa served as a Resource Speaker for the training. In his lecture, he emphasized the different bio-control agents that can be used by the farmers against FAW.

Also, the participants had a surveillance activity on a corn farm in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro wherein they gathered data on corn insect pests and diseases, and they installed a FAW trap using a pheromone lure. With the hands-on activities, the participants learned the different control measures and modes of action in managing FAW infestation.

A total of 25 AEWs in the different municipalities in the province attended the activity.

The 2nd batch of the training will be conducted on April 26-28. While its 3rd batch and 4th batch will be conducted on May 17-19, 2022, and May 35-25, respectively.