CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Calabarzon is urging farmers to utilize new hybrid rice varieties and various types of fertilizers to boost rice production in the region.

In a recent Hybrid Rice and Fertilizer Derby exhibition in Sariaya, Quezon, more than 800 farmers from different provinces evaluated the hybrid rice varieties and fertilizers formulated by various local companies.

The department highlighted that hybrid rice varieties are the result of the first generation of breeding two finest rice varieties with the best qualities.

“Hybrid rice varieties are heavier, longer, and have more grains per tuft of rice compared to inbred rice,” said DA IV-A in a statement.

To provide additional knowledge and skills to rice farmers regarding new rice farming technologies, participating farmers were divided into groups for a field walk where they observed crops and visited the booths of participating companies showcasing various fertilizer products, pesticides, herbicides, and more. This was followed by a discussion where farmers were free to ask questions.

Julian Trinidad, the president of Concepcion Palasan Farmers Association in Sariaya, Quezon, emphasized the importance of attending such activities that help him and his group improve their capabilities and learn more techniques in rice farming.

“I am delighted that we were among those who were able to witness the various varieties of hybrid rice and fertilizers because we are being educated on modern technology, strategies, and methods for the advancement of our rice farming,” Trinidad said.

Local government partners, eight seed companies, and seven fertilizer companies also participated in the derby to showcase their products and systems, fostering innovation in the agricultural industry and promoting best practices in farming to aid farmers in their livelihood. (CH/PIA-Laguna)