JOSE ABAD SANTOS, DAVAO OCCIDENTAL—Thirty-three (33) upland rice farmers and indigenous people (IP) members successfully completed the Capability Enhancement on Upland Rice-Based Integrated Farming System training held at Barangay Quiapo on February 25-27, 2025.
Reaching the training venue was no easy feat. The journey involved a six-hour ride from the official station to Jose Abad Santos proper, followed by another four-hour travel to the drop-off point. The final leg required a one-hour motorcycle ride, making the trip both challenging and memorable.
Despite the arduous journey, the farmers' eagerness to learn never wavered. For many, this was their first-ever formal training in upland rice farming, and they embraced the opportunity with great enthusiasm.
Upland rice farmers were equipped with essential knowledge and skills in upland rice farming, introducing them to the vital role of crop diversification in improving their farming practices and ultimately increasing their income.
ATI RTC XI Rice Focal Person, Mr. Ernie L. Malazarte, served as the resource person throughout the training. He expressed high hopes that the knowledge and skills imparted during the three-day program would significantly benefit and help them apply new farming techniques in their daily practices.
As their farmlands are located in sloped areas, they were trained with the A-Frame construction and contour farming techniques, essential tools in preventing soil degradation and promoting diversified farming.
To illustrate their visions and strategies, they created and presented their farm plans to improve their respective farmlands. These allowed them to put their newfound knowledge into action and share their ideas with fellow farmers.
The eagerness of these upland rice farmers to learn and improve their farm practices is a testament to the significance of agricultural training programs. Their growing interest and commitment to innovation show that, regardless of how far or difficult the journey may be, what truly matters is the impact and outcome of their efforts.
Contributor: Mecris D. Raras
