Reinforcing a shared commitment to transform Philippine agriculture into a smarter, more sustainable sector, the Korea Agency of Education, Promotion, and Information Service in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (EPIS), in partnership with the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X), conducted an in-depth feasibility study for the proposed Internship Program on Smart Agriculture for Young Filipinos on April 13, 2026 at ATI-RTC X, El Salvador City.
The meeting brought together key representatives from EPIS, including Dr. Kang Oh Lee, Mr. Min Ho Lee, Mr. Jaewook Jang, Ms. Tae Yu Yun, Ms. Hae Kyung Park, and Ms. Yoo Jin Lim. ATI-RTC X officials were led by Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez, with the participation of Javier P. Andalan, Chief of the Partnership and Accreditation Section; Jhoylie R. Caumban, Chief of the Career Development Management Section; and Moisa Niña Paglinawan, High-Value Crops Focal Person.
Also present were representatives from the Department of Agriculture – Project Development Service – Project Packaging and Resource Mobilization Division, headed by Mae Anen P. Gordon, along with ATI Central Office representative Mc Alter A. Lanzon.
During the discussions, Korean representatives emphasized the critical role of the youth in nation-building and highlighted their strong potential to drive innovation and shape the future of agriculture.
This local inception study marks a significant milestone toward the official rollout of the program. It serves as a platform to collaboratively refine the project design, as to assess existing training systems, and conduct a baseline survey to ensure effective and impactful implementation.
As part of the engagement, the delegation toured the ATI-RTC X compound to identify potential sites for the establishment of smart farm technologies, as well as facilities that will support training and internship activities.
Following the meeting, the Korean delegation, together with ATI officials, visited the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office X and met with Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan. They also conducted interviews with farmers in Kibenton, Impasugong to gain on-the-ground insights into local agricultural practices and opportunities.
With the inception study now underway, ATI-RTC X and its Korean partners take a decisive step forward in advancing smart agriculture in the Philippines, empowering young agripreneurs and contributing to the vision of a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.
