ATI-RTC XI Commits to Culturally Sensitive Communication through Participation in Information Officers Network

The Agricultural Training Institute XI (ATI-RTC XI) participated in the Information Officers Network (ION) regular meeting on July 18, 2024, with Marvelous Dainty Camilo effectively representing the ATI-RTC XI Information Services Section. The event took place at the Tatag IP Student Foundation Dormitory in Sto. Niño, Talaingod, Davao del Norte.

Organized by ION Officers under the leadership of President Michael Angelo Resueño, with support from the Municipal Information Office of Talaingod led by Mayor Jonnie Libayao and the Philippine Information Agency-Davao del Norte, the meeting focused on "Cultural Sensitivity."

Emmanuel A. Cacal, MPA from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Davao del Norte, served as the resource speaker. His presentation emphasized the importance of respecting and adapting to local cultural practices, particularly those of the Ata Manobo community, including their rituals and traditional justice systems. Cacal highlighted the significance of tribal attire as cultural symbols and the responsibilities of visitors to understand and adjust to these customs.

​In the afternoon, the meeting discussed updates on the Information Officers Summit, Investor Education Roadshow, and the resolution on creating a mandatory Information Officer position in local government units. ATI-RTC XI's commitment to enhancing agricultural communication strategies, especially in reaching geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), remains steadfast. Camilo’s involvement demonstrates the institute’s dedication to refining communication practices and sharing best practices with information officers from various national agencies and local government units in the province.

The insights gained from the "Cultural Sensitivity" session and monthly updates are set to enhance ATI-RTC XI’s ability to tailor agricultural programs effectively for diverse receivers of information, especially farmers. By integrating cultural sensitivity insights, ATI-RTC XI aims to ensure that its outreach efforts are respectful and impactful, fostering community engagement and delivering essential agricultural knowledge and services to those in need.

This collaboration highlights ATI-RTC XI’s broader goal of improving government communication strategies and fostering effective information dissemination to better serve the public.