BAYONG, Guindulman, Bohol — Twenty-seven rice farmers from the Bayong Small Water Irrigation System Association (SWISA) completed a hands‑on training on the Palay KeyCheck System on July 28, 2026. The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) led the activity at Barangay Bayong, aiming to raise yields and lower production costs through science‑based farming.
A Science‑Driven Approach to Rice Farming
The Palay KeyCheck System is an integrated crop management tool that guides farmers through every critical stage of rice production. It prescribes timely, proven practices for using quality seeds, preparing land, establishing crops, and managing nutrients, water, and pests. By following these checks, farmers can make better decisions, reduce waste, and increase their harvests.
The training zeroed in on practical applications rather than theory. Participants learned to identify the right seed varieties for their soil, calibrate fertilizer use to avoid over‑application, and schedule irrigation efficiently. Integrated pest management techniques were also covered to minimize chemical dependency. The goal is a healthier crop that commands a better price at market.
Sustaining Bohol’s Food Security Goals
The activity forms part of the Provincial Government of Bohol’s broader push for agricultural self‑sufficiency. Under the Strategic Change Agenda on Climate‑Smart Agriculture and Fisheries, the province prioritizes equipping smallholder farmers with modern skills. The training directly supports the provincial goal of achieving sustainable food security.
The OPA’s Provincial Rice Technicians Team conducted the sessions, assisted by Ma. Michele Lariza and Richelle Cachapero from the LGU‑Guindulman. Their collaboration ensured that the training was both technically sound and locally relevant. The Bayong SWISA members are among the first in their area to adopt the system, setting a benchmark for neighboring associations.
Economic Gains for Small Farmers
Applying the Palay KeyCheck System can significantly improve farm profitability. Farmers who adopt the recommended practices typically see lower input costs due to precise fertilizer and pesticide use. Higher yields per hectare translate into greater income without expanding land area, a critical advantage in a province where farm sizes are often modest.
For the 27 participants, the training is a stepping stone toward more resilient livelihoods. They now have the knowledge to respond to weather fluctuations and pest outbreaks with confidence. The association plans to share the lessons with other members, creating a ripple effect across the irrigation network.
