The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO III), in collaboration with the Nueva Ecija Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, hosted a “Hybrid Rice Harvest Derby” at the University Business Affairs Program's (UBAP) rice production area today, September 19, showcasing various hybrid rice varieties to local farmers.
The derby drew nearly 150 farmers from the District 2 municipalities and cities of Nueva Ecija, along with representatives from key seed companies and agricultural institutions.
Mr. Marlon Ingusan, a 40-year-old farmer from Lupao, Nueva Ecija, highlighted the importance of such events.
“Umaatend ako ng mga ganitong derby para sa susunod na taniman ay alam na namin kung anong variety ang magandang itanim at kung saan kami mas kikita,” Mr. Ingusan said.
The event featured a diverse lineup of top seed companies and research institutions presenting their best-performing hybrid seeds. These included SeedWorks, Enviro Scope Synergy Inc., Green & Grow Teknologies, BioSeed, Leads Agri, SL Agritech Corporation, Bayer Crop Science, Syngenta, Aljay Agro Industrial Solutions Inc., Pro Agri Seed Corp, and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).
Key individuals present during the event were Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Emmanuel M. Vera Cruz, representing University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, Dr. Karenina B. Romualdo, Vice President for Business Affairs, Dr. Lowell Rebillaco, Supervising Agriculturist, Dr. Jovita B. Agliam, Provincial Agriculturist, Mr. Christian Ramos, Regional Seed Coordinator, and Assoc. Prof. Jaypee H. Estigoy, UBAP Crops Production Division Director.
The knowledge gained from the derby empowered farmers to make informed decisions and sustain their success in future cropping seasons.
