A training program that seeks to transfer new rice-based farming technology to upland rice farmers in Maguindanao graduates 362 farmers this week, a statement from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) said Wednesday.The training is intended to teach farmers how to use high quality seeds, monitor rice yields, and manage their farms.

“Mindanao has great economic potential. It is a source of key agro-industry based products and its investments grow year after year. By introducing innovations in rice production systems, agriculture can be a strategic growth driver in this region,” said JICA Chief Representative Susumu Ito. “Through the trainings, we hope to help promote food security as well as create jobs in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao.”

The two-year training initiative under JICA’s Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro (CCDP-B) in partnership with the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), includes information campaign and advocacy, establishment of farmers field schools (FFS), and study tours of farmers and ulamas (religious leaders).

JICA, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) –ARMM, Bangsamoro Development Authority (BDA), and the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) are implementing the training.

“The training emphasized the relevance of Islamic values and leadership and management trainings in relation to rice farming. We’ve incorporated values transformation to bridge concerns on values, peace, and sustainability,” said PhilRice Acting Executive Director Sailila Abdula.

JICA has been supporting peace and development in Mindanao for more than a decade through over 70 community development projects implemented under the ARMM Social Fund for Peace and Development and Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development or J-BIRD. DMS