Thirty-eight seed growers from Ilocos Norte joined a Retooling Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification, held from April 28 to 30, 2025, at the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center I (ATI-RTC I) Satellite Station Training Facility, Tabug, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte.

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The three-day course was organized by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) through its Crop Research and Production Support Division (BPI-CRPSD), in collaboration with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and DA-Regional Field Office I (DA-RFO I). It was facilitated by staff from BPI-CRPSD and the National Seed Quality Control Services Division (BPI-NSQCS I).The training aimed to refresh and deepen the participants’ knowledge of inbred rice seed production, while also preparing them for certification renewal.

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As part of the course, participants were introduced to digital tools such as the Grow App, Seed Inspector Mobile App, and the Seed Certification Portal. They also gained valuable insights into the Rice Seed Information System (RSIS), with presentations led by the RSIS team from PhilRice and BPI-NSQCS I.

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The activity also gave seed growers a chance to assess the current status of their rice seed industry and component programs. Regional Seed Coordinator Ms. Analiza R. Ramos shared updates and insights on the region’s progress. Technical experts from NSQCS I conducted lectures and hands-on sessions on proper seed testing procedures, methods, and laboratory standards. Ms. Win Lei A. Castillo, OIC-Satellite Chief of NSQCS I, presented the policies, mechanics, and guidelines for seed certification, including the accreditation process. Meanwhile, PhilRice Batac technical personnel highlighted the importance of the nine PalayCheck practices in maintaining high seed quality.

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This training serves as a requirement for the renewal of accreditation for participating seed growers and supports the continued strengthening of the rice seed industry in Region I. Over time, this translates to stronger harvests, a more reliable seed supply, and greater support for local farming communities which directly aligns to the BPI’s mission in ensuring a sustainable agriculture.

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