Nueva Ecija farmers test low-cost fertilization method to cut rice production expenses
SANTA ROSA, Nueva Ecija (April 8, 2026) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is stepping up efforts to help farmers manage rising fertilizer costs by introducing a more affordable rice fertilization strategy in Nueva Ecija.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. joined over 100 rice farmers during a harvest festival in Santa Rosa, where a pilot fertilization protocol was demonstrated across a 10-hectare site.
The initiative comes amid continued increases in fertilizer prices, largely driven by fluctuations in global oil and gas markets and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. These factors have significantly affected the cost of urea, a primary nitrogen source for rice farming.
The program supports the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to improve farmers’ income while lowering production costs. It reflects the DA’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on inputs that are vulnerable to global price swings, without compromising crop yields.
“This approach is designed to protect farmers from unpredictable price changes while maintaining productivity,” Tiu Laurel said.
Under the new protocol, farmers begin by applying ammonium sulfate at one bag per hectare during seedbed preparation. Within the first two weeks after transplanting, they add two bags per hectare of a high-nitrogen fertilizer (21-0-0) to support early plant growth.
Between days 18 and 25, fertilization shifts to balanced nutrient blends such as 16-16-8 or 14-14-14 in liquid form to enhance root strength and nutrient absorption. Later in the growing cycle, potassium-rich fertilizers like 17-0-17 or 0-0-60 are applied to improve grain development and plant resilience.
A notable feature of the method is the use of homemade fish amino acid, an organic supplement applied multiple times from transplanting until just before harvest. This alternative nitrogen source helps improve soil health, supports plant growth, and enhances nutrient uptake.
According to Tiu Laurel, combining targeted chemical inputs with organic alternatives can reduce dependence on costly urea while maintaining yields.
Officials say the project is part of a larger push toward cost-efficient and climate-resilient agriculture. If implemented widely, the method could help stabilize farming costs, boost incomes, and lessen the sector’s vulnerability to global energy price shocks.
The DA is also testing similar approaches nationwide as part of its long-term goal of promoting regenerative farming practices and reducing reliance on inorganic fertilizers.
Recent disruptions, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have further increased fertilizer prices by affecting global fuel supply chains, adding pressure on farmers and food prices.
“This initiative highlights not just the harvest, but the resilience and dedication behind every grain of rice,” Tiu Laurel said.
NPO News Team | DA Press Office - PR
