Malaybalay City, BUKIDNON---A transformative training program aimed at enhancing vegetable production skills concluded on Monday morning September 30 at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex (NMACLRC) in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. The Season-long Training of Trainers, which began on June 5 this year, brought together 30 dedicated Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), farmer leaders, Farmer Field School (FFS) participants, and learning site owners.
The season-long training of the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) is a comprehensive 4-month training program that aims to capacitate participants with advanced knowledge and skills.
For this particular training, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum focused on various sustainable vegetable agricultural technologies showcased through actual participatory demonstrations and sustainable practices. It also includes the establishment of an insect zoo, application of agroecosystem analysis (AESA), seed sowing, soil preparation, seed selection, fertilizer computation, pest management, post-harvest handling, hands-on driving of farm machinery, and establishment of a mini greenhouse and nursery area.
A visit to established Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSA) was conducted to facilitate and execute hands-on demonstrations. The training emphasized technical skills and also fostered collaboration and peer learning among the participants.
Licensed Agriculturist April Ann N. Baltazar, the valedictorian training participant who was given the Medal of Achievement, plans to replicate and implement in her community in Impasugong, Bukidnon, the good practices of the said vegetable production training.ย
โIt was an honor and a pleasure nga maka-uban ta mong tanan ani nga journey. It was just amazing that from strangers, we became friends and family. As we bid goodbye to the four months nga nag-uban ta, unta the friendship and the bonding nga atong na-build is dili lang dere taman. For sure magkita-kita pa ta sa mga sunod nga mga trainings. So, this is not a goodbye, but a see you around. It was so nice meeting you all. ย ย
To our farmers, kining tanan nga among nahibaloan sa training is para ni sa inyoha tanan who are our unsung heroes of today. Our biggest and snappiest salute sa inyong tanan. As we move forward, we must remember that this training is not an end but a beginning. It is a stepping stone towards a brighter future para sa atong mga farmers. Let us use the knowledge and skills we have acquired to empower our farmers, promote sustainable agriculture, and contribute to ensuring and attaining food security. Let us strive to be role models and inspire others to embrace agriculture, labi na gyud sa mga kabatanonan sa atong kumyunidad. Let us persuade, encourage, and convince them that agriculture is a rewarding and fulfilling profession. Let us be the catalyst and positive change working tirelessly to improve the lives of those around us.โ, Ms. Baltazar said in her valedictory speech.
The selected AEWs were recognized for their commitment to agriculture and their potential to empower local communities. Through interactive lectures and hands-on demonstrations, they gained valuable insights that will enable them to mentor others in best practices for vegetable production.
The program's ultimate goal was to equip participants with the knowledge necessary to make a significant impact in their communities and the broader agricultural sector in Northern Mindanao. As they conclude this training, the participants who are now graduates, are positioned as leaders in vegetable production, ready to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.
DA-RFO 10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan in his short visit during the training period, encouraged the participants and expressed his delight in witnessing the active involvement of younger generations in the training due to their proactive contribution to agricultural development. Additionally, he also suggested incorporating field visits to greenhouses as part of the training program.
The event highlighted the importance of continuous learning and resilience in addressing contemporary agricultural challenges. Participants were encouraged to maintain the connections forged during the training to support one another in their future endeavors. This initiative represents a significant step towards empowering local farmers and enhancing food security through improved vegetable cultivation practices.
Training Specialist III Teodosia D. Jaraba, section chief of the Career Development and Management Section (CDMS) of the center, delivered a closing message on behalf of Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez. OIC-Provincial Agriculturist Jacqueline Julia A. Lagamon and Malaybalay City Agriculturist Engr. Richard B. Leano also graced the said activity.
Training facilitators Jessica A. Vicente of MAO-Balingasag, Arnold P. Loquias of PAgro-Bukidnon, Agriculturist II Joan Marie Diola of CAO- Malaybalay City, Agriculturist II Bernido P. Miasco of MAO- Lantapan, and Agriculturist II and NUPAP Alternate Focal Person Ronald Allan Camaddo of the Department of Agriculture-Regional Filed Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) attended the graduation ceremony and wholeheartedly supported the graduates.
โAs a working and nursing mother of two, the real challenge when organizing months of training activity is balancing professional responsibilities alongside personal commitments. A healthy work-life balance is essential for personal well-being and professional productivity. Iโm grateful for the four months of learning and re-learning along with the rest of the participantsโ, said Training Specialist II Moisa Niรฑa C. Paglinawan, who is also the project officer of the Season-long Training of Trainers on Vegetable Production. (Field photos appear courtesy of Ms. April Ann N. Baltazar) ย
