By Kenneth Marcos 
In many farming communities, handling farm chemicals is part of daily life. But without proper training, these products can harm farmers, families, and the environment. This concern brought together dozens of dealers and traders in Koronadal City for a two-day safety training aimed at protecting both people and crops.
The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) SOCCSKSARGEN led the Accredited Safety Dispenser (ASD) Training on November 12–13, 2025. A total of 31 participants joined the activity to strengthen their knowledge on the safe handling, storage, and distribution of agrochemicals widely used in the region.
FPA officials said the training is essential for dealers and traders who serve as the first point of contact for farmers buying fertilizers and pesticides. They emphasized that proper dispensing and accurate information from sellers help prevent misuse, which can lead to health risks, soil damage, and lower farm productivity.
During the sessions, participants learned about correct labeling, safe packaging, and responsible chemical disposal. They were also briefed on the latest government regulations, emergency response procedures, and guidelines to avoid contamination in stores and farms. These lessons aim to ensure that agrochemical businesses follow national safety standards, helping safeguard communities that depend heavily on agriculture.
SOCCSKSARGEN remains one of the country’s most active farming regions, with thousands of hectares planted with rice, corn, vegetables, and high-value crops. Because of this, the demand for fertilizer and pest-control products continues to grow. The FPA said that strengthening the knowledge of dealers is a key step in making sure these products are used correctly and responsibly.
Traders who completed the training are expected to guide farmers in choosing the right chemicals for their crops and in following safe application practices. The FPA hopes that consistent training will reduce incidents of improper use and increase awareness of safer alternatives and integrated pest management techniques.
As agriculture continues to evolve, authorities stress that safety must remain a priority. Programs like the ASD Training help build a more informed supply chain—one that supports farmers while protecting people and the environment from avoidable harm.
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