BPI’s farm program expanding

The Bureau of Plant Industry’s model Socio-Economic Enhancement and Development (SEED) farm is catching the attention of private and government organizations as a vehicle for technology transfer to improve the lives of people.

BPI director Blo Umpar Adiong, who spearheaded the setting up of model SEED farms in Marawi City, Talakag, Bukidnon and Marilog, Davao City, said government agencies and non-government groups have sought his agency’s assistance in establishing SEED farms in other areas.

Adiong said the Bondoc Development Program (BDP) for the Quezon’s Bondoc Peninsula, which is supported by the German Technical Cooperation, has sought assistance for the setting up of a one-hectare demo area in San Francisco and Poctol, and a one-hectare demo plot each in its six Farm System Improvement Sites this year, and in two other sites next year.

The assistance sought would involve the production of corn legumes and vegetable seeds as well as training on integrated pest management for corn.

Adiong said Social Welfare and Development Undersecretary for External Affairs Luwalhati Pablo also sought the BPI’s help for a joint program that will help improve the lives of disadvantaged families in 10 selected sites.