Question & AnswerQ&A (DA ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 16, S. 2010)
The Revised Guidelines on Inbred Seed Certification are promulgated pursuant to the provisions of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 7308, otherwise known as the Seed Industry Development Act of 1992, specifically Chapter III, Article II, Section 3.
The guidelines cover inbred rice seeds, which include upland and lowland inbred rice planted under irrigated areas.
Deputized Seed Inspectors are responsible for validating and inspecting seed production areas for certification.
The production area must have soil suitable for rice seed production, with sufficient irrigation and an efficient drainage system.
Minimum planted areas are: Breeder Seed - 0.02 hectare, Foundation Seed - 0.2 hectare, Registered Seed - 0.5 hectare.
For Certified Seed class, the maximum permitted number of other varieties (off-types) per 100 square meters is two (2) plants.
The BPI certification tags should be placed by NSQCS in a transparent plastic packet. Deputized Seed Inspectors attach the tags sized 7 cm x 14 cm folded lengthwise and stapled or sewn at the uppermost center on one of the lids of the seed bag.
Registered Seed class must have at least 98% pure seed and a minimum germination rate of 85% based on pure seed only.
The maximum allowable moisture content for seeds in all classes is 14%.
Seed fields damaged by insect pests and diseases by more than 50% are not eligible for certification.
Seed samples must be submitted to NSQCS by Deputized Seed Inspectors not later than three (3) months after harvest for certification.
The certifying agency may resample or spot check seed lots even after tags have been issued. If the seed lots fail to meet quality standards upon recheck, the analysis results will be revoked, and the seed grower must return the tag to NSQCS.
Inspectors conduct a preliminary inspection 15-20 days after planting, a final inspection after the crop is fully headed, and may do follow-up inspections. They cross the field at random, inspecting strips of 25 square meters in size, recording off-types, weeds, and other quality affecting factors.