Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU, ATI-RTC 1 train Ilocos Norte farmers on vermicomposting

By Criztalene Victorio

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), through its Extension Directorate, and the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 (DA-ATI-RTC 1) conducted a training on vermicomposting and organic waste management for farmers from across Ilocos Norte on October 27 and 28.

Held at the University Review Center and Organic Fertilizer Production Facility, the first batch of trainees gathered 31 participants from the local government units (LGUs) of Badoc, Paoay, San Nicolas, Laoag, and Batac, as well as the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).

The activity was conducted in response to a training request from the Laoag City Agriculture Office for the Sunshine City Organic Farmers Association (SCOFA).

During the opening program, MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. thanked the organizers and participants for their interest in promoting soil health and sustainable farming in the province. He shared that the university will continue to support local farmers by setting up a university soil testing lab that can help farmers boost organic fertilizer production.

In her message, Ms. Shiela Corpuz, university extension specialist II explained the importance of the training, highlighting how organic farming turns everyday waste into good organic fertilizer. Meanwhile, MMSU Director for Extension Marlowe Aquino encouraged participants to continue their community projects, promising university support for their initiatives.

On the first day of training, Dr. Floramante Pastor, project leader of the Bioorganic Fertilizer and Vegetable Project, discussed the fundamentals of composting, the use of earthworms, compost bin preparation, and proper worm management.

On Day 2, participants visited the MMSU Organic fertilizer production project for hands-on practice. They observed and examined the fertilizer made at the facility and learned how to make fermented plant juice and fermented fruit juice.

“This training program directly addresses the urgent need for household food security, cost reduction in farming, and sustainable waste management during rising inflation” Mr. Kerima Joy Quimoyog, one of the participants shared.

After the first batch, the second training was conducted in Dingras on November 3-4. The third batch is on Piddig on November 5-6 and the fourth batch in Marcos, scheduled on November 11-12.

Through this training, more communities will be reached and trained in the use of vermicomposting and organic waste management, further supporting community initiatives and agricultural development across Ilocos Norte. (𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘔𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘺 𝘎𝘢𝘯𝘰)