The Agricultural Training Institute as a capacity builder continues to impart knowledge not just to farmers and fisherfolks alike but also to handicapped individuals in our society. One of these is the women who are victim-survivors of domestic violence and other forms of abuse and exploitation housed in the Regional Haven for Women in Ala-e, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. ATI in close coordination with DSWD- Region X and the Municipal Agriculture Office of Manolo Fortich conducted a Capability Enhancement Training for Women in support of the elimination of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) entitled Training on Backyard Gardening last July 26-28, 2023.
The training aimed to capacitate women to increase their knowledge and skills in vegetable gardening as an alternative means of livelihood to make them productive especially once they were incorporated back into their communities. Ms. Teodosia D. Jaraba, Training Specialist III and the Project Officer of the said activity was delighted to extend anything that can be given but also shared that only through hard work can anyone reap the bounties of their labor. Likewise, Ms. Daisy Joy R. Sales, ATI- RTC X Technical Support Staff together with Ms. Liza A. Abarido, Ms. Jenelyn Dalunhay, Mr. Ralph Daigidigan, Mr. Dionisio Dela Cruz from the Municipal Agriculture Office were excited and eager to share their know-how and expertise in vegetable production.
The participants were able to learn the production of common vegetables and root crops as well as their insect pests and disease management through lectures and actual demonstrations. They were also able to plot their own garden within the compound thanks to the unwavering support of DSWD- Region X and Ms. Maycel Jandayan who has gone the extra mile in making sure these women are equipped with basic knowledge and skills as they try to stand on their own two feet.
ATI- RTC X headed by its Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez, and OIC- Assistant Center Director Noemi Beth G. Macario hopes to inspire women empowerment. Likewise, DSWD- Region X and the Municipal Agriculture Office dedicate their whole-hearted support to this endeavor. (submitted by: Training Specialist III Teodosia D. Jaraba)
