EL SALVADOR CITY, MISAMIS ORIENTAL –Guided by its mandate to professionalize agricultural extension nationwide, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) continues to empower the agricultural workforce through its network of training centers. ATI-RTC X conducted the first batch of the Refresher Course on Agricultural Extension on April 27- 29, 2026, at ATI-RTC X compound, El Salvador City.
The training program was designed to enhance the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills of extension workers in the region. This initiative comes at a crucial time as the agricultural landscape in the Philippines faces shifts due to the Mandanas-Garcia ruling and rapid technological advancements, requiring field workers to adapt their strategies for rural development.
There were 25 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental and Lanao del Norte who had completed the training.
Mr. Jericho M. Millan from Misamis Oriental highlighted how the course improved his fieldwork approach.
“The training helped me communicate effectively with farmers by using simple, clear, and culturally appropriate language. I also improved my facilitation skills, allowing me to engage farmers better and encourage active participation during discussions and training,” Millan said.
The course curriculum focused on several core pillars, including the basics of agricultural extension, communication strategies, and modern extension approaches and modalities. Participants engaged in diverse methodologies such as interpersonal communication exercises and community engagement techniques to better empower local farmers and fishers.
The second batch of the training will be conducted on May 18-22, 2026.
Reports from Karlo Jayvert Cardente
