The Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Training Institute—Regional Training Center V (DA-ATI-RTC V), organized a training on seed production, processing, and storage for community seed banks last January 19-20, 2023 at Pili, Camarines Sur in support to their Seed Banking for LIFE (Lasting Initiatives For Environment) Model.
On the first day of the training, over 40 participants coming from the different learning sites for agriculture (LSA) were introduced to the technical know-hows of seed production, processing, and storage. University Researcher (UR) Florita F. Carandang started the training by laying down the principles of seed production, followed by the discussion on seed processing and storage by UR Jennelyn C. Bengoa. The participants were taught the difference between orthodox and recalcitrant seeds and how they are harvested for storage or later use.
In the afternoon, Dr. Mary Ann D. Maquilan tackled the technicalities of seed quality control to ensure the quality and viability of the seeds to be harvested and stored. On the other hand, UR Raol P. Pamiloza talked about insect pest management during the seed production stage, while UR Hidelisa D. De Chavez emphasized the significance of establishing a community seed bank, where she also mentioned successful projects here and abroad.
On the second day, Mr. Elmer E. Enicola briefly discussed the importance of knowing the rainfall pattern in seed production. He presented the data obtained from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) showing the rainfall pattern in the Bicol Region. Afterwards, an interactive demonstration on harvesting, processing, and storing of seeds from pole sitao, okra, eggplant, squash, cucumber, and tomato, was conducted by Ms. Carandang and Ms. Bengoa with the assistance of Mr. Antonio Lanao, an IPB farm worker.
Also present in the event were Training Center Director Elsa A. Parot; Mr. Emmanuel L. Orogo, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Services Unit Head, with his team; and Mr. Roberto B. Santos, Jr., Alternate Point Person for the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP). (Ricky Bryan U. Biagtan)