To strengthen the capacities of agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and private partners in promoting sustainable vegetable production, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center I (ATI-RTC I) conducted a Training of Trainers (TOT) on Sustainable Vegetable Production from March 31 to April 11, 2025, at ATI-RTC I in Tebag East, Santa Barbara, Pangasinan.
The two-week training aimed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of 33 AEWs and farmer-cooperators from local government units (LGUs) and Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) cooperators, respectively. It also sought to improve their teaching competencies in sustainable and climate-resilient vegetable farming practices, enabling them to effectively implement trainings and provide farm advisories within their communities.
The training covered a wide range of topics including seed selection, soil health management, integrated pest management, nursery management, and other eco-friendly and climate-resilient farming techniques. To reinforce practical learning, the participants engaged in hands-on activities, field demonstrations, farm visits, and interactive workshops.
A highlight of the training was a field visit to a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)-certified farm in Kapangan, Benguet, where participants had the opportunity to interact with successful vegetable farmers and observe their sustainable farming practices.
In addition to technical training, participants also honed their facilitation and presentation skills through microteaching sessions, preparing them to become effective trainers in their respective areas.
Resource persons from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office I (DA-RFO I), Bureau of Plant Industry, University of the Philippines – Los Baños (UPLB), and ATI-RTC I served as facilitators and experts, sharing their insights and best practices to promote productivity while safeguarding environmental sustainability.
This TOT is part of ATI-RTC I’s continuing efforts to build a pool of competent trainers who can cascade knowledge to local farmers and stakeholders, ultimately contributing to food security and sustainable agricultural development in the region.
