The Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 commenced its 38th Founding Anniversary on February 5, 2025, to celebrate its years in service. The anniversary's theme, "Youth in Agriculture: Cultivating Innovation through Partnership," shone light on the importance of building rapport and commitment with Institute staff and agriculture partners.
The event started with a Thanksgiving Mass by Rev. Freddie Penoliar, followed by the inauguration of newly renovated ATI facilities. Assistant Center Director Dr. Josephine Aben and Center Director Dr. Jayvee Bryan Carillo shared their warm welcome messages to the rest of the ATI staff.
"Regardless of your ranks and your position and your designation, ang bawat isa sa atin ay may contribution," said Dr. Carillo in his speech. "Hindi makakarating ng 38 years ang ATI kung ang bawat isa sa atin ay walang ginawa o walang contribution."
The day’s highlights were the Ceremonial Signing of the FY 2025 Work and Financial Plan, the unveiling of the Commitment Paint Art, wherein ATI staff painted their thumbprints on the ATI logo, signifying their pledge to take part in advancing agricultural development, and the Agri-Klinik 1.0.
Farmers, agricultural extension workers, and students flocked to ATI to join the Agri-Klinik, seeking answers for their questions and concerns regarding rice, corn, vegetables, livestock, organic agriculture, coconut, and mokusaku technology. Subject Matter Specialists from ATI-RTC 1, the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office 1, and Learning Sites for Agriculture catered to the clients queries on farming.
During the Agri-Klinik, Ms. Marcelina Montemayor inquired about her concerns on insects and the quality of her soil for her vegetable and ornamental plants. She said, "Maraming makukuhang mga [kaalaman na] pwedeng makatulong sa aming pananim. Mga guidelines, kung papaano gamitin at kung papaano gawin ang pagtatanim, at kung paano alagaan para maging productive." She is a local from Dagupan City and part of the Mauksoy Farmers Agency.
Besides farmers, the Agri-Klinik was open to non-farmers who showed interest in the arts of agriculture. Ms. Elvira Salayog Bernal of Dagupan City said she joined her farmer siblings to the event with the intention of purchasing new seeds for her farm, as well as learning more about agriculture and raising crops. Her venture into farming started when she began planting vegetables around her house. She is currently a member of the Matalungaring Mangin Association.
The Agri-Klinik welcomed more than 100 guests. Besides consultations, the program had a free photo booth, where people could take solo or group photos as souvenirs. Likewise, for 10 pesos, brave individuals could take a picture with an albino python brought by Vaughn’s Farm—a certified LSA. A few lucky visitors brought home raffled gifts to help them in their agri journey.
The celebration continued on February 6, with the ATIng Gabi ng Parangal at Pagkilala, Kasangga sa Ekstensyong Pangisdaan at Agrikultura.
