by Joyce Lagrio

To promote the various information and technology services of the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), the University through its Extension Directorate office once again joined the Lakbay Palay organized by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Batac branch.  This year’s theme is “Bida ang Sama-Sama para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.”  The activity was conducted on October 17-18, 2024, at DA-PhilRice Batac participated by various stakeholders in Region 1.

The Lakbay Palay serves as a platform for key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including farmers, researchers, extension workers, and students to explore the latest advancements in rice farming technologies. 

As part of MMSU’s promotional activities, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials covering agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and other related topics were distributed during the activity.

In addition, products developed by MMSU and those produced by the Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) and other MMSU-assisted beneficiaries were also exhibited and sold. 

Ms. Agnes Asuncion of Currimao, Ilocos Norte showcased her freshly harvested dragon fruit. Ms. Bernadette Adones of the City of Batac, owner of the Adones Integrated Farm also exhibited and sold her lemongrass juice. 

Other exhibitors that participated in the Lakbay Palay were Partuat ti Kailokuan Marketing Cooperative, Laoag City Balatong Bamboo Weaving Association, National Tobacco Administration, Philippine Carabao Center, farmers’ and cooperatives assisted by PhilRice, including partner agricultural companies. 

The Lakbay Palay highlighted PhilRice’s significant contributions to Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, showcasing the varieties of rice which include seven inbred varieties (NSIC Rc 604, Rc 622, Rc 624, Rc 626, Rc 630, Rc 222, Rc 596), and eight hybrid varieties (Rc 486H, Rc 72H, Rc 204H, Rc 446H, Rc 544H, Rc 490H, and Rc 666H). 

Farm machinery, including the riding-type leveler, mechanical rice transplanter, drum seeder, multi-purpose seeder, solar-powered irrigation system, and low-cost bamboo-bin dryer, was also showcased to improve the productivity, profitability, and well-being of the rice-farming communities.

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