The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office VIII, through its Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) in partnership with the National Corn Program, successfully conducted a two-day Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Training on Corn on June 18–19, 2026, at the Municipal Agriculture Office in Paranas, Samar.

The activity gathered local corn farmers and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) to enhance their knowledge and skills in managing pests and diseases affecting corn production.

The training aimed to equip participants with practical and science-based approaches to protecting corn crops from major threats while promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. Discussions covered key topics such as corn growth stages, identification and management of major insect pests and diseases, natural enemies of insect pests, rodent management, and proper corn sampling procedures. To assess learning outcomes, participants underwent pre-test and post-test evaluations focused on pest identification and management.

Leading the activity were RCPC technical staff who served as resource persons and facilitators under the supervision of RCPC Chief Silvia C. Rosaroso. In her overview of the training, Ms. Rosaroso emphasized the importance of Integrated Pest Management as a vital strategy for minimizing crop losses, improving productivity, and reducing dependence on chemical pesticides through the adoption of sustainable pest control measures.

On the second day, participants engaged in a hands-on field activity in Barangay Tutobigan. Divided into four groups, they conducted actual field monitoring and data gathering in a corn production area. The participants collected insect pests, diseased plant samples, and beneficial insects for identification and analysis. As part of the biological control component of the training, earwigs were released in the field to help suppress populations of small insect pests. The groups later presented their findings using the Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AESA) monitoring method, allowing them to evaluate field conditions and recommend appropriate management interventions.

Through the training, participants gained a deeper understanding of identifying corn pests, diseases, and their natural enemies, recognizing pest damage and nutrient deficiency symptoms, and applying proper sampling and monitoring techniques.

The activity forms part of DA-RFO 8’s continuing efforts to strengthen the capacities of farmers and extension workers, ultimately contributing to improved corn productivity, enhanced crop protection, and sustainable agricultural development in the region.