Category: Articles

May 30, 2025 | Quezon City – In a move to harmonize local pesticide regulation with global best practices, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) launched the Work Manuals on Bioefficacy and Residue Data Evaluation for Pesticide Product Registration on May 30, 2025 during the FPA 48th Anniversary. 

Developed by the Pesticide Regulations Division (PRD), the manuals provide technical evaluators with standardized guidelines to ensure consistency, transparency, and scientific rigor in pesticide product assessments.

The Work Manuals can be accessed through the following link:

Work Manual on Pesticide Residue Data Evaluation

Work Manual on Pesticide Bioefficacy Data Evaluation

Enhancing regulatory efficiency and global alignment

According to PRD, the manuals were developed to establish a systematic and standardized approach in evaluating bioefficacy and residue data submissions. They address challenges in ensuring consistency and quality in data evaluation, particularly as FPA expands its pool of technical evaluators.

“Serving as a reference guide for FPA evaluators, the manuals provide comprehensive guidelines on data requirements, standard review procedures, prescribed reporting formats, and validation measures,” explained Maribel M. Querijero, Chief of PRD.

“They combine the expertise of FPA evaluators with international best practices in regulatory science and stand as the culmination of collaborative work by various institutions and experts,” she added.

The initiative was made possible through the support of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI), and CropLife Asia under the USDA Cooperation on Global Pesticide Engagement with ASEAN Economic Communities, which promotes harmonization of regulatory systems across ASEAN member states.

Watch video highlighting the significance of FPA engagement and partnership with USDA and CABI Video Message for FPA Manuals Launch – CABI SRD, Asia

Contributions and acknowledgments

The manuals were developed through the invaluable contributions of the Expert Working Group for Bioefficacy, composed of Ms. Florinda Vasquez, Dr. Candida Adalla, Dr. Peter Magdaraog, Dr. Rizaldo Bayot, Dr. Elenita Sison, Dr. Melvin Ebengua, Dr. Nina Gracel Dimaano, Ms. Clare Hazel Tabernilla, Ms. Lovely-Luar Perez, and Ms. Kriz Anne Joi Minguez.

Leadership support was provided by former FPA Executive Director Julieta Lansangan, Deputy Director Eric Divinagracia, and Ms. Maribel Querijero, Chief Agriculturist of PRD, whose steadfast advocacy pushed forward improvements in FPA systems. Dr. Sabyan Faris Honey facilitated coordination with USDA experts, while Mr. Ricky Ho of CropLife Asia offered valuable insights and encouragement. International expert Mr. Alan Norden was also recognized for his tireless efforts in enhancing the content and quality of the manuals.

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

August 28, 2025 | San Mateo, Isabela – A total of 36 farmer leaders and officials of various Irrigators’ Associations (IAs) in the province participated in the Pesticide Management Training (PMT) conducted by the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Regional Office II, in partnership with the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC), on August 26–28, 2025 in Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela.

The activity forms part of the continuing collaborative efforts of the FPA and ATI-RTC to promote sustainable and responsible farming practices. 

It aimed to strengthen the participants’ knowledge and skills in the proper development and implementation of effective pesticide management strategies to control disease vectors and domestic pests, while ensuring the protection of public health and the environment.

The three-day training covered an in-depth discussion on the guidelines for the safe and proper use of pesticides, which included reading and following labels, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), working in well-ventilated areas, observing proper hygiene, and applying the correct amount to the designated target. 

Other topics discussed were pesticide resistance management, regulatory policies on fertilizer and pesticide products, and the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to further enhance the participants’ competencies in increasing farm productivity while upholding safety and environmental responsibility.

The training was positively received by the participants, who recognized the information shared as both relevant and valuable in supporting the development and security of Isabela’s agricultural sector.

Writer: Arwin A. Cardenas

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

August 23, 2025 | Quezon City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) has intensified its campaign to promote drone technology in farming through the expansion of its “Drones4Rice” information caravans, reaching more than 1,250 farmers and stakeholders in Luzon and Visayas from June to August 2025.

Organized by FPA regional offices in partnership with local government units (LGUs), Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Offices (DA RFOs), and the National Rice Program (NRP), the caravans feature live drone demonstrations, technical lectures, and consultations showcasing the practical benefits of agricultural drones in rice farming.

“Ang drone technology ay hindi lang bahagi ng hinaharap, ito ay kasalukuyan at reyalidad,” said FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada during the information Caravan held in Narra, Palawan on July 17.

“Sa likod ng bawat lipad ng drone ay ang tungkuling protektahan ang kalikasan, ani, at kalusugan ng mga magsasaka at komunidad,” Director Estrada added.

The six caravans held since June gathered strong participation from local rice farmers:

Drones in modern farming

Agricultural drones are emerging as a game-changing tool for modern farming. They enable faster and more efficient application of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides while reducing environmental impact, minimizing health risks to farmworkers, and lowering labor costs.

The Drones4Rice program was pioneered in 2024 by the DA–National Rice Program with its first regional caravans in Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) and Region III (Central Luzon). With the FPA’s nationwide rollout, more caravans are set to take place in the coming months to expand awareness and adoption of drone technology in agriculture.

Writer: Fernando Pierre Dela Cruz

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

August 6, 2025 | Quezon City – 58 Personnel from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) attended the “Orientation and User Training on the Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI)” on August 6 at the FPA Building, BAI Compound, Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. 

The training aimed to equip FPA personnel with essential knowledge on the country’s digital communications encryption system, which is increasingly being adopted by government agencies nationwide.

The PNPKI, being managed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), was widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the government’s transition to more secure and digital operations. 

It provides encryption and digital security mechanisms that protect documents and messages, enabling more secure internal and external communications among government personnel and agencies.

Through this system, each user is assigned a unique digital certificate containing institutional information, position, and an electronic signature, along with designated encryption keys. These identifiers enhance digital security, ensure user accountability, and support the integrity of official communications.

To access any encrypted document or message, personnel must complete a dual-verification process using their assigned digital key and certificate—effectively preventing unauthorized access.

Three DICT experts including PNPKI Registration Authority Lead Jennifer Canlas, PNPKI Support Team Lead John Recto, and PNPKI Registration Authority Officer Loyd Santiago served as resource speakers. They led the orientation and assisted in enrolling 39 endorsed permanent officers from the FPA Central Office into the PNPKI system. These participants received their respective digital credentials for future use in official online regulatory and administrative documents.

FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada expressed full support for the agency’s integration of PNPKI and welcomed the move toward secure and streamlined communication.

“This is for all of us who are part of an increasingly digital government, especially now that we are putting more effort into digitalizing. We will start with the digitalization of our regulatory services, until we eventually cover our administrative processes,” he said. 

“Marami pa tayong gagawin, this is just the start.”

Writer: Fernando Pierre Dela Cruz

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

June 2025 | Quezon City — In line with its commitment to uphold quality and safety standards amid emerging agricultural innovations such as drone-assisted application and biofertilizer use, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) conducted a two-part training series on ISO/IEC 17025:2017 to strengthen laboratory competency and regulatory reliability.

The training series, held at the FPA Central Office Convention Hall in Quezon City, was designed to build technical capacity among key FPA personnel involved in laboratory testing, field regulation, and compliance monitoring. Attendees included staff from the Laboratory Services Division (LSD), Pesticide Regulations Division (PRD), Fertilizer Regulations Division (FRD), Field Operations and Coordination Unit (FOCU), and the Planning, Management, and Information Division (PMID).

In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry – Philippine Trade Training Center (DTI-PTTC), the sessions were facilitated by expert resource persons Ms. Narcel Merano and Engr. Helen P. Subradil.

The first session, “ISO/IEC 17025:2017 – The Standard for Laboratory Competence,” was held on June 4, 2025. It introduced participants to the general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, focusing on key elements such as impartiality, confidentiality, structural framework, resource requirements, and management system options.

The second session, “ISO/IEC 17025:2017 – Laboratory Internal Audit,” took place from June 26 to 27, 2025. This module focused on internal audit practices aligned with the standard. Participants learned how to conduct various types of audits, document findings, address nonconformities, and apply root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies. Interactive workshops and case-based activities were integrated to enhance practical skills in conducting effective internal audits.

“These training initiatives are part of our continuous efforts to ensure that our laboratories maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability in testing fertilizers and pesticides,” said Dr. Jerolet C. Sahagun, Chief of the FPA Laboratory Services Division. 

“By equipping our personnel with internationally recognized competencies, we reinforce stakeholder trust and regulatory credibility, she added.” ###

Writer: Sharmaine Tecson

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 29, 2025 | Quezon City – The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) conducted a three-day training on Applied Geotagging Technology (AGT) and Geographic Information System (GIS) from May 27 to 29, 2025.

The training aimed to strengthen the agency’s monitoring and regulatory functions by equipping personnel with practical skills in geospatial technologies, particularly for tracking and supervising fertilizer and pesticide handlers nationwide.

The training was attended by personnel from the operating units at the Central Office and the Regional Field Units (RFUs). Participants held diverse technical positions such as Agriculturists, Provincial Officers, Chemists, Information System Analysts, Planning Officers, and Administrative staff—all integral to the agency’s operational mandates.

Participants were introduced to AGT and GIS concepts through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Modules included the use of the DA-GeoCamera mobile application, mapping through Google Maps, and basic training on GPS technology and Quantum GIS software.

A key component of the training was a field application, where five participant teams were deployed to various government sites in Quezon City to capture geotagged images using mobile devices. This exercise enabled real-time application of geospatial methods and reinforced collaborative fieldwork skills.

To sustain and deepen technical proficiency, the FPA identified next steps including: advanced GIS training, creation of video-based learning materials, enhanced central-regional coordination, and the establishment of a dedicated support system for ongoing geomapping initiatives. The integration of real-world datasets into future sessions was also recommended to enhance realism and relevance.

“This training marks another milestone in FPA’s digital transformation,” said FPA Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada. “By empowering our personnel with modern tools, we are improving our ability to deliver responsive, transparent, and data-driven public service to Filipino farmers and agri-businesses.”

Writer: Edward Calapatia

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

June 24, 2025 | Tuguegarao City — Reinforcing its commitment to ensure the quality and safety of agricultural inputs, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority Laboratory Recognition Committee (FPA FLRC) conducted an on-site assessment of the Department of Agriculture – Cagayan Valley Integrated Agricultural Laboratory (DA-CVIAL) on June 24, 2025.

The assessment visit aimed to evaluate the laboratory’s facilities, equipment, analytical capabilities, and technical competence under the FPA Laboratory Recognition Program. This program accredits laboratories that analyze fertilizers and pesticides in compliance with national standards, supporting the availability of high-quality agricultural products across the country.

The FLRC team, composed of Mr. Paul Kristian J. Berjuega, Ms. Gina S. Dongaol, and Ms. Feliona B. Alip from the FPA Laboratory Services Division, led the comprehensive evaluation. During the initial briefing, Mr. Berjuega outlined the technical, legal, and documentary requirements for FPA laboratory recognition. He explained the process flow for accreditation — from application submission and preliminary assessments to on-site inspections, verification, and final report approval.

The briefing was attended by Ms. Fevie Rica A. Ancheta, Chemist IV, along with three technical staff specializing in fertilizer and pesticide analysis. Director Kay S. Olivas, Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, also participated in the meeting to underscore DA-CVIAL’s commitment to meeting industry standards.

“While the accreditation process may pose challenges, the benefits are substantial. This program enables laboratories to align with industry standards, share best practices, and strengthen testing reliability for the agricultural sector,” Mr. Berjuega said.

After the discussion, the FLRC team inspected DA-CVIAL’s laboratory facilities and equipment to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for recognition. The assessment concluded with a courtesy visit to Director Rose Marie G. Aquino, Regional Executive Director of DA-RFO II, joined by Mr. Leonardo A. Bangad, FPA Regional Officer for Region II. Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration in enhancing agricultural regulatory services in the region. ###

Writer: Arwin A. Cardenas

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

June 20, 2025 | Candelaria, Quezon — In line with its commitment to promoting responsible pesticide use in agriculture, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Regional Field Unit IV, in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) of Quezon and the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of Candelaria, conducted a “Training on Pesticide Usage and Management” for local corn farmers in Barangay Mangilag Norte, Candelaria, Quezon.

Led by Suzettie M. Alcaide, FPA Regional Officer, the training aimed to enhance farmers’ awareness on the safe, effective, and environmentally sound use of pesticides. The session emphasized the importance of product stewardship, proper handling practices, and regulatory compliance in line with FPA’s mandate.

Mr. Marl Louie N. Seminiano, Agriculturist II, introduced participants to the core functions and regulatory powers of the FPA. He underscored the risks of purchasing agrichemicals from unauthorized sources and highlighted the agency’s enforcement, monitoring, and capacity-building initiatives.

Mr. Jan Paolo Umerez, also an FPA Agriculturist II, conducted a technical discussion on the correct procedures for pesticide handling, storage, and disposal. He reminded farmers that pesticide “cocktailing”—mixing different products to save on labor—is prohibited due to its risks. He also stressed the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce exposure during mixing and application.

Regional Officer Alcaide reiterated the importance of responsible pesticide management and cautioned against unsafe practices such as reusing pesticide containers, which can result in severe health and environmental hazards. She also discussed the classification of pesticides and the appropriate handling practices based on their toxicity levels.

“Fertilizers and pesticides are vital in improving corn yield, but their misuse can have dangerous consequences,” Ms. Alcaide said. “This is why it is essential to equip our farmers with the proper knowledge and tools to ensure both productivity and safety.”

The training empowered 27 farmers from Barangay Mangilag Norte to adopt science-based and safety-first approaches in their daily farming operations. The FPA team was supported by Filipina D. Frando and Kristian Kim Amurado from the Quezon Provincial Agriculture Office, along with Christian Castillo and Regina A. Rabutazo from the Candelaria Municipal Agriculture Office.

This initiative is part of the FPA’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable agriculture and protect public health through education and regulatory enforcement. ###

Writer: Ferdinand C. Mercene and Suzettie M. Alcaide

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 30, 2025 | Quezon City —In celebration of its 48th Founding Anniversary, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) reaffirmed its commitment to a more digitalized and future-ready government by launching a suite of innovative digital solutions designed to modernize agricultural input regulation and enhance public service delivery.

These digital innovations reflect FPA’s broader vision of a smarter, more agile public service—one that leverages technology to improve regulatory efficiency, promote safer agricultural practices, and deliver better outcomes for farmers and the Filipino public.

FPA Digital Payment System

Developed in partnership with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), the agency launched the FPA Digital Payment System. The system enables clients to process payments for licenses and accreditations online—streamlining workflows, reducing manual transactions, and expanding nationwide access to FPA services.

Watch video to know more about the FPA Digital Payment System:

GAB-AI mobile application

As part of its push for more inclusive and transparent governance, FPA introduced GAB-AI (Guide to Authorized and Beneficial Agricultural Inputs)—an intuitive, AI-assisted platform designed to help farmers and industry stakeholders easily identify FPA-registered fertilizer and pesticide products for their target crops, pests plant diseases. The mobile application also provides timely updates on prevailing weekly fertilizer prices.

This innovation supports data-driven decision-making in the field and encourages greater compliance with national safety and environmental standards. 

Watch video to know more about the GAB-Ai:

FPA Alert Lines Reporting System

To encourage public involvement and ensure regulatory accountability, the FPA launched the FPA Alert Line. This digital reporting platform empowers the public to report incidents involving the misuse or illegal handling of fertilizers and pesticides. 

By opening direct digital channels for citizen feedback, the agency strengthens its commitment to transparent, community-informed governance.

To facilitate immediate action from the FPA, reports and complaints shall include the following details:

• Name and type of product and/or handler
• Location of the product and/or handler
• Date and time of incident or when the product/handler was detected
• Online link of product/handler (if applicable)
• Images/videos/Screenshots (for online)
• Contact details of complainant or concerned citizen (Recommended)

The public may report illegal products and handlers through the following channels:

• Telephone: (02) 8920-8573
• Facebook: /FPAofficialpage
• Email: official@fpa.da.gov.ph
• Website: https://mirrored.fpa-gov.ph/

Watch video to know more about the FPA Alert Lines Reporting System:  

Institutional video introduces new FPA

Further promoting public awareness, the agency unveiled a new Audio-Visual Presentation (AVP) showcasing its mandate, organizational structure, strategic functions,  and enduring commitment to sustainable agriculture, public health, and environmental stewardship.

The FPA acknowledges the cooperation of following institutions and establishments for serving as production locations:

• Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office V (DA RFO 5)
• Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center V (ATI RTC 5)
• Farmstation Agrivet
• Naga NTE Fertiliizer Warehouse
• Harvestplus Agristore
• Bicol JL Corp Pesticide Warehouse
• LGU Baao Municipal Agriculture
• LGU Polangui MAO & MENRO
• APAO Poves Tabaco
• Good Grass

Watch video for the new FPA institutional AVP:

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Written by: FPA Information Section

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

May 30, 2025 | Quezon City — The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority is calling on all fertilizer and pesticide companies to step up as leaders in responsible agrichemical management through the launch of the FPA Comprehensive Approach for Responsible and Effective Stewardship (CARES) Awards. 

Officially unveiled during FPA’s 48th Founding Anniversary on May 30, the initiative seeks to embed product stewardship into the heart of industry practice while honoring organizations that go above and beyond in promoting safety, sustainability, and regulatory excellence.

Developed by the FPA National Committee on Product Stewardship (NCoPS), FPA CARES aims to enhance existing regulatory mechanisms, foster accountability across the supply chain, and encourage stronger partnerships between FPA and private-sector stakeholders. 

The program also provides a strategic platform for collaborative innovation while ensuring that fertilizers and pesticides are used safely, efficiently, and in alignment with both local and global stewardship standards.

“The FPA CARES Awards represent more than just recognition—they are a call for collective action,” said Glenn DC. Estrada, FPA Executive Director and NCoPS Chairperson. 

“We urge fertilizer and pesticide companies across the country to partner with us in building a future where stewardship is the foundation of sustainable agriculture,” Dir. Estrada emphasized.

Integrating global best practices

A key component of FPA CARES is the integration of Asia-Pacific regional best practices in agrichemical stewardship. By harmonizing international safety protocols, sustainability measures, and regulatory insights with local implementation, FPA seeks to establish a globally competitive product stewardship model. 

These practices are informed by experiences from countries such as Japan, China, and others in the region, ensuring the Philippines remains responsive to international benchmarks.

Recognizing industry leadership: FPA CARES Awards categories

Starting in 2026, FPA will confer the FPA CARES Awards to honor outstanding companies that exemplify best practices in product stewardship across the fertilizer and pesticide industry:

• Excellence in Environmental Safety & Sustainability Award – Recognizes initiatives that demonstrate outstanding efforts in reducing ecological impact, promoting green chemistry, improving waste disposal practices, and advancing sustainable input use.
• Best Regulatory Compliance Award – Awarded to companies that consistently meet or exceed national and international stewardship regulations, ensuring transparency, proper labeling, secure handling, and safe storage and distribution.
• Innovative Stewardship Practices Award – Highlights organizations that introduce cutting-edge methods for tracking agrichemical products, minimizing risks, improving packaging safety, or utilizing technology for responsible product use.
• Best Public-Private Partnership Award – Celebrates successful collaborations between industry players and government or research institutions that result in measurable advancements in stewardship education, compliance, or policy development.
• Leadership in Safety & Awareness Award (for both Fertilizer and Pesticide Products) – Given to companies that demonstrate leadership in educating farmers, distributors, and the public on the safe and effective use of products, while promoting awareness of quality, risks, and safety standards.*

To view the full video presentation of the FPA CARES Awards, visit this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QviW_gYurY&feature=youtu.be . ###

Written by: FPA Information Section

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team