KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Training of Trainers (TOT) on Rice Production Technologies and Farm Mechanization for the second batch of participants successfully wrapped up on May 23, 2025, after ten days of intensive learning held at Greenstate Suites, Koronadal City.

A total of 29 newly hired Local Farmer Technicians (LFTs) from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office XII (DA-RFO XII) completed the program, which began with a Values Re-orientation session designed to instill a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to agricultural development.

The training featured comprehensive discussions and practical sessions on key topics including the PalayCheck System, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Biological Farming, Farm Mechanization, ICT Tools in Agriculture, and Communication and Presentation Skills. These modules aimed to enhance the technical competence and communication capacity of the LFTs, enabling them to effectively serve and empower rice farmers in their respective communities.

The initiative reflects the ongoing efforts of the government to strengthen the extension system and boost rice productivity through a well-trained, grassroots-level workforce committed to innovation and service.