The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI) explored the agricultural learning sites of ATI-RTC XIII from April 29 to May 3, 2024.
Hosted by ATI CARAGA under the leadership of OIC Center Director Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, ATI XI staff gained knowledge on organic agriculture at the five Learning Sites for Agricultures (LSA) in Caraga Region: EM Nature Farm, Guias Integrated Farm, Olivier Ecovillage, and Ihayas Farm.
The team began the experiential learning journey at EM Nature Farm, owned by Dr. Claudio B. Estacio and Dr. Therese M. Estacio, where staffs learned about formal training in organic agriculture. In addition to exploring livestock, poultry, vegetables, fruits, and bamboo seedlings, the highlight was tasting magic berries. These berries changed the taste of other foods, altering even sour flavors into sweetness.
Guias Integrated Farm, owned by Ms. Shiela Maglines, highlighted the importance of partnerships, especially with the Department of Agriculture (DA). The agribusiness had multiple capacity trainings and support from DA and the local agriculture office that paved the way for their success as one of the producers of bananas and vegetables in Butuan City. They showcased the Ampalaya and Onion projects in partnership with DA, providing new insights to the staff.
Next, Olivier Farm is a home-based organic garden resto with a French countryside ambiance owned by Oliver Terante. He shared how, after working overseas, he chose the Philippines to build his ecovillage. He envisions contributing to the sustainable farm-to-table development of the country. Hence, he sells food and beverages where ingredients are fresh from his farm. The staff enjoyed refreshments made from home-grown mint and plants.
At Ihayas Farm in Siargao, sustainable practices were showcased, including natural fertilizer production, organic planting practices, and farm-to-table menus. They started by envisioning preparing food with locally sourced ingredients until they realized that most ingredients sold in the market were grown outside Siargao. Hence, to become more sustainable, they accept interns and teach them sustainable ways to make Siargao farmers more independent. The staff were surprised that plants often considered 'of no value' in the city were vital ingredients in their menu offerings.
The Learning Site Area (LSA) of ATI RTC XIII emphasized that the Training Center itself should be a model LSA to others. They have grown vegetables, cacao, poultry, and livestock products that inspire visitors to implement similar practices in their own projects.
The visit to Region XIII's agricultural learning sites provided practical knowledge applicable to sustainable farming. A visit was made to Butuan Museum as part of the experiential experience so the staff could learn more about the history and culture of Caraga. Attendees left with insights on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ready to bring home new knowledge to work with the farmers of the Davao region.
