LAGUNA, Philippines – Over 40 rice farmers, representatives from irrigators' associations, and local government officials from Santa Maria, Laguna, gathered on June 18, 2025, for a workshop focused on advancing climate-resilient and sustainable practices in rice production. The event marked the third cycle of SEARCA's "Transforming Rice Farming through Low Carbon Solutions" initiative.
The initiative is in partnership with Leads Agricultural Products Corporation (LEADS Agri) and Innovate UK, as part of the Rice Straw Biogas Hub (RSBH) project. It seeks to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders across the rice value chain to promote sustainable, climate-friendly farming.
During the workshop, participants learned about key strategies for mitigating the effects of climate change on agriculture. Blyndel Joy Casal, Santa Maria's Agricultural Technician, emphasized the importance of empowering farmers with sustainable practices like alternate wetting and drying (AWD). Rubenito Lampayan, a professor from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and an AWD expert, highlighted the technique's benefits, explaining that AWD can save up to 40% of irrigation water and significantly reduce methane emissions. To help farmers visualize the process, a diorama was displayed, showing how AWD can be implemented in their fields.
The event also introduced farmers to new technologies and economic opportunities. Arnan Araza of LEADS Agri explained the concept of a carbon market, emphasizing how farmers can earn income by adopting practices like AWD that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In the afternoon, LEADS Agri's Jonathan Montecillo demonstrated how to use Digisaka, an Android-based GIS application that helps farmers monitor their farm plots remotely. The day concluded with a live demonstration of drone-assisted farm mapping, which successfully mapped a one-hectare paddy field, showcasing the potential of drone technology in precision farming.
This low-carbon rice farming effort aligns with SEARCA's commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture. Eric Reynoso, SEARCA Emerging Innovation for Growth Program Head, underscored the importance of integrating innovative farming practices and technologies into climate-smart agriculture. He noted that collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing are crucial to mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on the agricultural sector.