ILIGAN CITY – To empower farmers, inspire the youth, showcase innovative agricultural practices and products across Region 10 the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) successfully conducted the Agri Asenso sa NorthMin Forum and Expo with the theme “Cultivating Futures: Empowering Youth through Digital Farming”.
Participants from Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, and Iligan City came together to display the finest farm produce and value-added products crafted by local agri-entrepreneurs.
Iligan City Agriculturist Marie Ann J. Beley welcomed participants and encouraged them to support future agricultural events and initiatives.
Representing Iligan City Mayor Frederick Siao, Jules Verne Padilla, Chief of Staff of the Office of the City Mayor, delivered an inspiring message highlighting the importance of innovation and collaboration.
The first day featured a hands-on demonstration by Nick Jay Arr E. Engallado of Engallado’s Nature Farm and Natural Food Products, who taught rice value-adding and processing techniques, including making rice brownies and rice cookies.
In addition, Ralph Vincent A. Tejada, Agriculturist II from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office X, presented updates on the Rice Program Initiatives for Region 10, while Ms. Angelie Marie M. Resabal of the Department of Trade and Industry – Lanao del Norte discussed strategies for entrepreneurship development.
The second day focused on the “Kabataang Pinoy Opportunities in Agriculture” (KPOP Agri) segment, aimed at equipping and empowering young people through scholarships and internships.
Moisa Niña A. Paglinawan, Officer-in-Charge of ATI’s Career Development and Management Section, introduced ATI’s educational and training opportunities. A ‘kamustahan’ session featured Kelly Jane P. Sudario, an EAsY Agri Scholar alumna and now Technical Support Staff at ATI-RTC X, who shared how ATI helped her complete college.
Meanwhile, Patrick Tomonglay, a former intern under the Young Filipino Farm Leaders Training Program in Japan (YFFLTPJ), inspired participants with his personal story and encouraged youth to engage in similar programs.
Entrepreneurs and innovators also took the stage to share their expertise Regine Mae S. Rizon, owner of Laregina Coconut Products and Manufacturing, discussed value-adding processes and digital marketing strategies for agricultural products. Dennis Ivan C. Balinguat, founder of Greenovation, introduced exciting new technologies in agriculture aimed at increasing productivity and sustainability. Acmillah Macabuat, City Officer of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Iligan, shared the agency’s plans to integrate digital solutions in agriculture, highlighting the importance of connectivity and innovation in modern farming.
As part of the expo's culmination, Iligan City was awarded Best Booth for its creative and impactful display of local agricultural products and innovations. Meanwhile, the Province of Bukidnon received the Highest Sales Booth Award, recognizing its outstanding performance in sales and entrepreneurial engagement during the event.
The Agri Asenso sa NorthMin Forum and Expo, held on May 29–30, 2025, at Robinsons Place in Iligan City, served as a vital platform to promote agricultural development, strengthen partnerships, and inspire the next generation of agri-leaders across Northern Mindanao.
