ABORLAN, PALAWAN — Western Philippines University (WPU) reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development by supporting the five-day Basic Training on Inbred Seed Production and Seed Grower Certification, held on July 21–25, 2025, at the WPU Main Campus Training Center in Aborlan, Palawan.
The training brought together agricultural practitioners and aspiring seed growers to strengthen their technical knowledge and practical competencies in producing high-quality rice seeds. The initiative was conducted through the collaborative efforts of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program, the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI-MIMAROPA), the Bureau of Plant Industry–National Seed Quality Control Services (BPI-NSQCS), and WPU.
Designed to promote scientifically informed and sustainable agricultural practices, the program covered essential aspects of rice seed production, including varietal selection, integrated nutrient management, integrated pest management, seed quality assurance, and certification procedures. Particular emphasis was placed on maintaining soil health, improving resource-use efficiency, and adopting environmentally responsible farming techniques that contribute to long-term agricultural productivity.
Beyond classroom discussions, participants engaged in laboratory exercises and field-based demonstrations on seed testing, varietal purity, germination, moisture content determination, field inspection, warehouse inspection, seed sampling, and tagging. These hands-on activities provided practical experience in applying seed quality standards and sustainable crop management practices under actual production conditions.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and government agricultural agencies in strengthening local farming communities. By facilitating access to technical expertise and practical agricultural education, WPU contributes to developing the capabilities of farmers and prospective seed growers to improve productivity while responsibly managing agricultural land and resources.
The activity supports the University’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through strengthened agricultural production and food security, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through sustainable agricultural land management and soil conservation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative agricultural extension initiatives.
Through continued engagement in research-based extension and capacity-building programs, WPU remains committed to connecting scientific knowledge with community needs, empowering local agricultural stakeholders, and advancing resilient and sustainable farming systems in Palawan.
Read the full activity documentation: Basic Training on Inbred Seed Production and Seed Grower Certification in Palawan – Training Magazine