#EmpoweringYieldsThruSSNMNE | Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office XII Research for Development Division, recently concluded a five-day workshop aimed at advancing agricultural practices through the application of Site-Specific Nutrient Management-Nutrient Expert (SSNM-NE) technology.
From June 24 to 27, 2024, representatives from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and the Agricultural Training Institute, alongside partners from regions 5, 9, 12, and 13, gathered in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato for the “Inception Meeting, Hands-on Training, and Planning Workshop on SSNM-NE of Corn and Cassava Projects.”
Site-Specific Nutrient Management-Nutrient Expert or SSNM-NE is a computer-based tool designed to optimize fertilizer recommendations for maize and cassava, aiming to improve the effective use of resources for higher crop yields and DA-BAR Technical Focal Person Apolonia Mendoza emphasized that this activity aimed to familiarize participants with the SSNM-NE tool and enhance their knowledge through hands-on training and field practicum.
Participants engaged in on-site interviews with farmer cooperators in Barangay Topland, Koronadal City, and visited the Aroman Research Station in Kidapawan City. Other key workshop activities include processing SSNM-NE fertilizer recommendations and developing/updating monitoring sheets, equipping participants with practical skills to implement the technology effectively.
National Corn Program Technical Expert Dr. Candido Damo highlighted the potential impact of the SSNM-NE technology on corn and cassava productivity. “High yield or productivity of corn and cassava is to be expected if this technology (SSNM-NE) is to be utilized by our farmers,” Damo stated. The successful completion of this workshop marks a crucial step forward in the adoption and implementation of innovative agricultural technologies across the Philippines, ensuring sustainable food production and economic growth in rural communities in terms of increasing corn and cassava yields.
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: Ian Frederick Carbonell