QUEZON CITY, Philippines- Six young farmers from SOCCSKSARGEN and BARMM will train at Japan for the 11-month internship program to acquire skills on modern agricultural practices.

This is after they have completed the Pre-Departure Orientation Course for 4-months. A send-off ceremony was held last April 8, 2024 for the 23 trainees of this year’s Young Filipino Farm Leaders Training Program in Japan (YFFLTPJ). It was organized by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and attended by Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.

Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the importance of equipping young Filipino farmers with competence, discipline, and values to succeed in their endeavors, pledging unwavering support from the Department.

Meanwhile, ATI Director Remelyn Recoter expressed confidence in the trainees, highlighting their role in reshaping Philippine agriculture and their transition into agribusiness entrepreneurs.

Among the qualified interns to Japan from SOX and BARMM are the following: Renie Joy G. Serra from President Roxas, Cotabato, Marlon C. Alapan from Makilala, Cotabato, Bellie D. Lok from Surallah, South Cotabato, Angel N. Tobongbanua from Banga, South Cotabato and Jovy Jane DC. Sapan and Rhodora Nicole M. Nieves both from Upi, Maguindanao del Norte.

ATI-RTC XII RBO Focal Person Ms May A. Guiang graced and attended the Send-Off Ceremony. It was held at the RDEC Function Hall, ATI Compound, Diliman, Quezon City, underscored the Institute's commitment to empowering the next generation of Filipino farmers.