Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat— Rice farmers in Barangay Rajah Muda, Tacurong City actively participated in a Farmers’ Field Day and Sensory Evaluation on Irrigated Lowland and Adverse Rice Varieties conducted by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XII (DA RFO XII), through the Tupi Research Outreach Station, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Tacurong.
The activity allowed farmers to directly observe and evaluate different rice varieties in the field, helping them identify which ones are healthy, high-yielding, and suitable for irrigated areas, drought-prone conditions, and special rice production. This hands-on approach enabled farmers to make more informed decisions based on their own farm conditions, soil type, and planting schedule.
According to Farm Superintendent Amie D. Tomala, bringing research closer to farmers is key to improving rice production in the region. “Mas mahalaga na ang mga farmers mismo ang makakita at makapaghusga sa performance ng mga bagong varieties ng palay. Kapag nasubukan nila ito sa sarili nilang bukid, mas magiging kumpiyansa sila sa pagpili ng klase ng palay na angkop sa kanilang lugar,” Tomala said.
The field day is part of NextGen Plus, a flagship rice research initiative of the Department of Agriculture implemented in partnership with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Unlike conventional trials, NextGen Plus is conducted in farmers’ fields and managed jointly by researchers, agricultural extension workers, and farmers using regular farm practices.
In Region XII, newly released rice varieties are tested in irrigated lowlands, drought-affected areas, and special rice ecosystems to determine which varieties perform best under local conditions. On-site discussions during field days provide a venue for farmers and stakeholders to exchange experiences, compare results, and identify varieties that offer better yield and resilience.
Through this participatory approach, NextGen Plus ensures that recommended rice varieties are not only scientifically validated but also practical and farmer-approved. The Department of Agriculture, together with PhilRice and IRRI, remains committed to supporting farmers with rice varieties that enhance productivity, strengthen resilience, and promote sustainable rice farming in Region XII. (Nichole Paul B. Agapay)
