DATU ABDUL, Panabo City—The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI successfully conducted the second batch of the Training of Trainers on Farm Business School from September 16 to 27, 2024 at ATI-RTC XI.
This 10-day training is in support to the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program, which aimed to equip participants with essential skills in farm enterprise management and entrepreneurship.
During the opening ceremony, RCEF Focal Person Ruby Jane P. Bentiroso emphasized the training's mission to empower Filipino farmers with financial literacy and business skills. She noted that the program introduces valuable tools and business opportunities designed to enhance the livelihoods of rural farming communities.
In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC), the training tackled on financial literacy led by Ms. Melanie Geologon, who highlighted agricultural credit programs available to farmers.
Mr. Jerry Carpentero, Planning Officer II, provided insights on entrepreneurship and farm profitability, while Mr. James Philip Saludares, Accountant I, introduced innovative digital bookkeeping practices and cited the importance of record-keeping for farm management. Then, Engr. Ariel Abastillas, Admin Aide VI, led participants in a market survey at the Tagum City Public Market, where they observed various marketing practices.
Participants engaged in hands-on learning through benchmarking activities at the Davao Integrated Resource Cooperative (DIRCO) in New Corella and the Davao Multi-Purpose Seed Cooperative (DAMSEPCO) in Tagum City, where representatives shared best practices in cooperative management. The training also included a session by Mr. Angelo Jadraque from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), who discussed the benefits and challenges of group marketing strategies in farm business operations.
Mr. Norsaeb Lumandong, Administrative Officer IV from ATI-RTC XI, led participants through the development of farm business plans which allowed them to create a personalized plan. ATI-RTC XI Assistant Center Director Olivia Gatus then offered valuable critiques to enhance the practicality and impact of these business plans.
In her closing remarks, Center Director Alicia Rose Nebreja highlighted ATI’s commitment to fostering knowledge-sharing in agriculture, underscoring the value of disseminating the training’s insights.
“We see you as an investment, equipped to share the knowledge gained here with your fellow farmers and local communities, helping us achieve a return on investment for the government,” CD Nebreja stated.
Participants commended the training for its engaging and practical approach. Ms. Janice Mindajao from Umaverde Farm & Learning Center expressed her appreciation for the training, stating, “The sessions were incredibly informative, and we truly valued the effort put into making each lesson lively and practical.”
Through this program, ATI-RTC XI continues to advance the skills and knowledge of Filipino farmers, supporting their ability to thrive in today’s competitive agricultural landscape.
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Writer: Babyglace R. Lanit
