In celebration of 38 years of stories, growth, and empowerment, the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 spearheaded a momentous gathering dedicated to recognizing collaborations and innovations in driving progress in the agriculture and fisheries extension endeavors in Region 1.
DA-ATI-RTC 1 held the ATIng Gabi ng Parangal at Pagkilala, Kasangga sa Ekstensyong Pangisdaan at Agrikultura on February 6, 2025, as part of the Instituteโs Founding Anniversary. The event, held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Center, served as a platform to celebrate the collective efforts of various public and private institutions in the region that demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering the agriculture and fisheries community.
Dr. Jayvee Bryan G. Carillo, DA-ATI-RTC 1 OIC Center Director, delivered the State of the Regional Training Center Address, reflecting on collective milestones towards achieving targets and accomplishing beyond what is expected from the Institute. The accomplishments highlighted the major role of ATI, such as capacity builder, knowledge bank, and catalyst of extension.
Dr. Carillo underscored proof of resiliency, innovation, and dedication that have defined the AF landscape in the past year, and urged the AFE key players to recommit to a shared vision in providing excellent extension services that contribute in the transformation of the food system in the region.
On behalf of the Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Sangguniang Board Member Dra. Shiela Ferrer-Baniqued delivered a Keynote Speech, highlighting the significant role of unified efforts in addressing challenges faced by the agriculture and fisheries sectors and the big part of the local government units as the forefront for agricultural development.
Among the other guests who also delivered their commendatory messages were Dr. Marvin G. Quilates, representative of DA-RFO 1 Regional Executive Director Dr. John B. Pascual; and Atty. Gerlie dela Peรฑa, representative of BFAR-RFO 1 Regional Director Rosario P. Segundina Gaerlan. Ms. Ruby Ann Pungutan was also present and shared the words and greetings of Senator Cynthia A. Villar.
The ceremony featured the awarding of plaques of recognition to outstanding partners from the National Government Agencies, Local Government Units, State Universities and Colleges, Farm Partners, Rural-Based Organizations, and other Private Institutions who have dedicated strong support in achieving the success of the Centerโs programs, projects, activities implementation in F.Y. 2024.
The awardees were commended for their contributions to the conduct of various trainings, technology demonstrations, information dissemination, community engagement, and strengthening partnerships and collaborations.
Aside from the recognition program, the event also included the ceremonial signing of various memoranda of agreement and understanding for collaborative agriculture and fisheries extension projects, such as partnerships between DA-ATI-RTC 1 and Cooperative Development Authority in Region 1; Revitalization of the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) Implementation in Ilocos Sur and La Union; Establishment of Farmersโ Information and Technology Services Kiosk in Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC); and Apprenticeship Program for Development Communication students of ISPSC.
DA-ATI-RTC 1 also awarded certification of newly certified and re-certified Learning Sites for Agriculture and newly accredited Extension Service Provider. Further, various IT equipment and IEC materials were awarded to five (5) FITS Centers for enhancement and two (2) FITS Kiosks for establishment. This support is part of the continuing initiative of the Center to revitalize the TGP implementation, specifically to enhance the capacities of FITS Centers located in different local government units in the region.
The event concluded with a ceremonial toast, calling for renewed and stronger cooperation among all key stakeholders to reinforce the shared vision of a thriving agriculture and fisheries industry. The management of DA-ATI-RTC 1 expressed gratitude to all pillars of extension and encouraged further engagements to ensure continued success of AFE endeavors in Ilocos Region.
As the agriculture and fisheries sectors continue to evolve, the recognition and support of dedicated partners remain crucial in fostering innovation, sustainability, and resilience. This event stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in shaping the future of the industry.
