Burning of sugarcane areas, incorrect planting and incomplete application of fertilizers are old practices that cause low and poor production of sugarcane. SIFI, under its Responsible Sourcing from Smallholders or RSS Program, conducted an orientation with 16 participants from 5 ARB Organizations last August 20, 2019 at the SIFI Training Center, Talisay City. The goal was to help them improve their production and adopt processes which could sustain the viability of sugar industry.
Soil Fertility Improvement Program objectives, interventions, establishing a demo farm, timeline and expected results were discussed. It was agreed that the said program will start on September 2019 or once harvest season begins. Furthermore, SIFI will provide ARBOs with a checklist of agreed farming protocols for the demo farm. This will be further discussed with them during the on-site sessions on soil fertility. Soil sampling will also be done after the session.
As a result, participants were able to understand the important factors that could contribute to improve production and elevate their income. An agreement was set between parties by way of signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), showing that they are committed to their responsibilities and to the deliverables expected under this program.
