CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- As Farmers and Fisherfolk’s Month kick-off celebration, and capping off the successful conclusion of Filipino Food Month and HVCDP Week in April, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) conducted the 2nd AgriAsenso sa Northmin: Masaganang “Cocobuhayan” Products Expo and Techno Forum held at Ayala Malls, from April 28 -May 2 2026.
With the theme “Driving Inclusive Growth in Agriculture through Innovation and Collaboration,” the activity gathered farmers, agricultural extension workers (AEWs), youth, agripreneurs, local government units (LGUs), government agencies, and industry stakeholders in this three in one event. The event aimed to strengthen market linkages, promote innovation, and advance agricultural development in Northern Mindanao.
Eight exhibitors, including cooperatives, LGUs, and agricultural institutions showcased a wide range of local products and services. Participants included the Farm Business School of Manolo Fortich, Laregina Coconut Products Manufacturing, Provincial Agriculture Offices of Bukidnon and Misamis Occidental, City Agriculture Offices of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro, Pagsaka Agri Cooperative, and the Learning Site for Agriculture in Northern Mindanao.
The program was graced by key officials, including Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office X Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, Misamis Oriental 2nd District Board Member Dr. Princess N. Emano, Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Juancho R. Pascual, and City Agriculturist Engr. Bernie A. Daba, Jr., ATI-RTC X’s OIC-Assistant Center Director Efren C. Macario, and Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez.
In her message, CD Maria Lydia A. Echavez recognized the unwavering dedication and hard work of farmers and agricultural extension workers, honoring their sacrifices in advancing the agriculture sector. She also emphasized the importance of encouraging the youth to embrace agriculture as a meaningful and promising pathway toward sustainable development and national growth.
Awards were also given during the event. Farm Business School (FBS) Manolo Fortich was recognized as Best Booth, while Laregina Coconut Products Manufacturing received the Highest Sales award.
As part of the activity, a series of techno-forums were conducted. Training Specialist II Moisa Niña C. Paglinawan presented ATI internship programs, highlighting opportunities for skills development and hands-on experience. Caressa Pacana, Agriculturist I from the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office X, discussed updates on the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), focusing on initiatives that enhance productivity and farmer support. Meanwhile, Ralph Marcel Estaño, Project Development Officer III from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region X, presented the agency’s programs and regional implementation efforts.
ATI-RTC X also recognized the Best Re-Entry Plan Implementers in the region. Under the HVCDP, awardees included the local government units of Valencia City (Bukidnon), Baroy (Lanao del Norte), Cagayan de Oro City, and Jasaan (Misamis Oriental). Under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CIDP), awardees were the LGUs of Jimenez (Misamis Occidental), Magsaysay (Misamis Oriental), Tubod (Lanao del Norte), and Quezon (Bukidnon).
In support of the Rice Information Campaign, representatives from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP)–Cagayan de Oro introduced their technology, “Cropwise,” a data-driven tool designed to assist farmers in improving decision-making and productivity. Agriculturist I Mary Lie M. Suralta also shared insights on digital tools in rice farming, equipping participants with modern approaches to enhance efficiency and farm management.
The five-day event is ATI-RTC X’s commitment to advancing agriculture by championing innovation, strengthening partnerships, empowering Filipino farmers and agri-stakeholders toward a more profitable, bankable and sustainable agriculture sector.
