In response to the request of Naujan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (NAMCO), ATI MIMAROPA conducted a one-day Seminar on Organic Agriculture Production Technology on August 2, 2022 at NAMCO Building, Barcenaga, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

The seminar primarily focused on the production of organic fertilizers as aid in the increasing prices of chemical fertilizers.

Jun Madriaga, Chairman of NAMCO said that the cooperative tapped the ATI to teach their members the organic way of producing fertilizers and concoctions in order to lessen the fertilizer cost and farming expenses, especially that all farm inputs have been continuously increasing nowadays.

Relatively, Jay-ar B. Madriaga, Agriculturist II discussed the different kinds of organic fertilizers such as Basic Composting, Vermicomposting and Bokashi. Since most of the participants use chemical fertilizers and foliars, he explained its side effects to soil and the plants. He also corrected them of the practice of farmers when using chemical ones.

“Most of the farmers use synthetic fertilizers and spray right away if they observe that there are insects or pests in the farm, not knowing its characteristics or descriptions,” Mr. Madriaga said.

In addition, Cyrus Jay V. Escolastico, Project Development Officer I presented the various concoctions which they could prepare at home. Moreover, they experienced the actual preparation of concoctions such as Fermented Plant Juice, Fermented Fruit Juice, Fish Amino Acid and Indigenous Microorganism through hands-on activities and demonstration.

After the seminar, ATI MIMAROPA gave the remaining molasses to the cooperative as well as IEC materials on agriculture. NAMCO Chair Madriaga expressed that they will apply what they have learned, especially that they plan to make compost as their new business endeavor.

Having said this, ATI pledged to support or assist them once they pursue their organic activities.

A total of 15 participants/ NAMCO members attended the seminar.