The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), through the Crop Research and Production Support Division (BPI-CRSPD) in partnership with the National Seed Quality Control Services Division (NSQCS) Region VII, PhilRice, and ATI-RTC VII, successfully conducted the Basic Training Course on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Certification held at Bohol Plaza Mountain Resort and Restaurant, Mayacabac, Dauis, Bohol on May 5-9, 2025.

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The training aims to equip aspiring seed growers who will lead the production of inbred rice seeds activities of the station towards the production of high-quality seeds. The activity was funded under the BPI Rice Seed Component Program. Twenty-one (21) aspiring seed growers from Region VII participated in the five-day training.

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Participants installed and explored the GrowApp, Seed Inspector Mobile App, and Seed Certification Portal during the activity. In addition, they gained a better understanding of the Rice Seed Information System (RSIS), which was presented by the RSIS team from PhilRice and personnel from the BPI-NSQCS Central Office.

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The activity also allowed participants to assess the current status of the rice seed industry in the region, with insights shared by Regional Seed Coordinator, Mr. Rico Rommel A. Varquez. NSQCS Region VII technical experts discussed proper seed testing methods, procedures, and laboratory standards through lectures and practical sessions. Furthermore, a lecture on the mechanics, policies, and guidelines in seed certification, including the accreditation process, was also presented by Mr. Ronaldo Calamba and Ms. Marcheta C. Brina from NSQCS VII. While PhilRice personnel, Mr. Albert Christian Suñer, and Ms. Susan Brena discussed the importance of the nine Palay Checks in ensuring seed quality.

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As the agriculture industry continues to evolve, this training represents a critical step toward enhancing seed production practices and ensuring farmers have access to high-quality and improved crop seeds.

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(051525-22)