The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) has long been committed to empowering Filipino youth through initiatives that foster leadership and innovation in agriculture. Among these efforts are its International Exchange Programs, designed to equip young farmer-leaders with cutting-edge agricultural technologies and enhance their agribusiness management skills.

These pioneering ATI programs were the focus of the second episode of ATI-Davao Region’s monthly AgriBiz Media Forum, held on March 21, 2025, at SM Lanang Premier. Guests included Ms. Lynn A. Leopoldo, the program’s focal person, along with four young farmer alumni of the program.

The ATI International Exchange Program consists of two flagship initiatives, Young Filipino Farm Leaders Training Program in Japan (YFFLTPJ) and the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan (FYFIPT). Both programs aim to develop promising young farmers into skilled leaders and agri-entrepreneurs.

Leopoldo explained that the participants undergo a one month pre-departure orientation, an 11-month intensive on-farm training in the partner country, and a post-evaluation and business plan pitching session in the Philippines, upon return. 

Among the graduates of the YFLTPJ - who just returned last February, is Ms. Blazzy Cybelle Grace Reyes of Cateel, Davao Oriental. She shared that the Japanese agriculture blends advanced technology with sustainable traditions, such as crop rotation and organic composting. This balance between innovation and tradition ensures productivity while protecting the environment. “I believe we can adapt this in the Philippines, especially for smallholder farmers,” Reyes emphasized. 

Meanwhile, Ms. Jenjean B. Abris of Maco, Davao de Oro, reflected on how the program shaped her leadership mindset. The young farmer stated that witnessing Japan’s highly organized and tech-driven farming systems inspired her to think beyond traditional methods. “What impacted me most was realizing that change won’t happen unless we step up and lead. In agriculture, progress starts with initiative and this is what I planned to do in my own community,” Abris added. 

As part of the program, participants receive a ₱50,000 startup grant with a chance for an additional ₱150,000 if chosen with the best business proposal. Mr. Jerry Miah T. Roble of Samal, Davao del Norte, also one of the graduates of the YFLTPJ, plans to launch a cattle breeding project to address local meat shortages. 

Ms. Deva Mae E. Tapuroc, an FYFIP alumna, credited ATI-Davao for supporting youth entrepreneurship. ”Through training and startup grants, ATI helped turn our agri-business dreams into reality", Tapuroc stated.

The ATI-Davao Region has already sent 36 and 14 young farmers under the YFLTPJ and FYFIPT, respectively, since the program started and reimplemented in 2014. This year, ten more qualified candidates —currently undergoing pre-departure training in Manila—will be sent to Japan and Taiwan, furthering the institute’s mission to develop the next generation of agri-innovators.

The AgriBiz Media Forum hosted by ATI – Davao Region is scheduled every third Friday of the month in partnership with Department of Agriculture – RFO XI and SM Lanang Premiere. The event serves as a dynamic platform that brings together agri-fishery stakeholders, technical experts, farmer beneficiaries, and media partners in sharing updates and insights on the agency’s initiatives.