The Bureau of Plant Industry – National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS) is on a roll! They’re continuing their vital Information Caravan for Plant Nursery Operators, recently making impactful stops in Region IV-B, Region II, and Region X.

This initiative brings together nursery operators from both the private sector and Local Government Units (LGUs) to promote the production and distribution of quality planting materials for fruits and plantation crops. The caravan focuses on two key programs: Plant Nursery Accreditation and Plant Material Certification.

The events kicked off with inspiring video messages from BPI-Assistant Director for Regulatory Services and Concurrent Chief of NSQCS, Ruel C. Gesmundo, and Director Gerald Glenn F. Panganiban, Ph.D. Both emphasized the critical role of quality planting materials in expanding and improving the agricultural sector. They also thanked attendees and encouraged active participation. Key personnel from the respective DA-RFOs in each region also shared messages on the importance of the event for local plant nursery development.

Participants benefited from a range of valuable lectures and presentations from BPI and its partner agencies:

• Philippine Coconut Authority provided updates on the CFIDP program.
• Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) shared information on upcoming training schedules for plant nursery operators.
• BPI-NSQCS detailed the requirements and process flows for Plant Nursery Accreditation and Plant Material Certification.
• Various crop experts presented the various NSIC registered varieties for different crops to help participants understand and select the best varieties for propagation.
• BPI-PPSSD introduced attendees to PhilGAP Certification, discussing its importance and process.
• BPI-NPQSD explained the Domestic Movement of Planting Materials, highlighting the prevention of the spread pest and disease through movement of planting materials.
• BPI-CRPSD focused on proper nursery establishment and management to guide the prospective plant nursery operator.

The information caravans were a resounding success, offering a productive day of learning for plant nursery operators across the regions. BPI-NSQCS continues to strongly encourage all nursery operators to accredit their nurseries and certify their planting materials to ensure the widespread use of high-quality planting materials across the Philippines!