Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
To follow the standard propagation scheme of quality cassava planting materials, the Department of Agriculture, Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO), conducted a seminar-workshop on propagation and certification of cassava planting materials, held at the Farmers Training Center, Aug. 24.
Led by Juliet B. Araos, chief of DA-RFO Regulatory Division, the seminar was participated by farmers, representatives from cooperatives and LGUs of Malaybalay, Valencia, Maramag, and San Fernando, students, and other guests.
According to Luisito S. Ofngol, Regulatory Division supervising agriculturist, choosing cassava planting materials is an important measure to avoid any contamination that affects the production of cassava.
Bukidnon has been producing cassava planting materials throughout the country. Due to the demand of the planting materials, the DA-RFO 10 invested their efforts to increase the proper propagation and certification by conducting such activity.
“This is a good avenue for the farmers, extension workers and students to become more aware in dealing cassava from the planting materials to the production,” said Mr. Ofngol. “We aimed also to increase the number of people who have interest on establishment of nursery and propagation of quality planting materials of cassava.”
The seminar-workshop urged farmers and other constituents to establish certified nurseries and to be accredited by the Bureau of Plant and Industry in producing quality and safe propagules of cassava.
Candelaria Dalunyag, farmer and barangay councilor of San Jose, Malaybalay City said: “Dako kaayo ko ug natun-an ani nga seminar nga akong magamit sa pag-uma ug nagtudlo nako sa sakto nga pag-atiman sa mga igtalanum nga balanghoy.”
She added: “Natun-an usab nako mahitungod sa insekto ug mga sakit nga maoy makapaubos sa production sa cassava.”
Fourth year students of BS Agriculture major in Agronomy from the College of Agriculture also attended the activity. John Alegado, one of the students, stressed that this is very helpful for him in his chosen field to enhance his knowledge specifically in cassava nursery production.
“I have learned the traditional and the new techniques in preparing good planting materials of cassava and enrich other cultural practices [applied] to have higher yield…” he added. (JCandole/ MLTalisay)
