Sixteen agriculturists, two Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) graduates, and three participants from agriculture-related courses—comprising 11 females and 10 males—successfully completed the Expanded Basic Agricultural Extension Course (EBAEC) training held on April 10, 2026, at Belo Hall of ATI-RTC XII.
The EBAEC training supports the DA-REACH program, which aims to capacitate DA-RFO XII personnel through a series of trainings, while also providing exposure to farmers’ daily routines and the challenges they face.
The graduation program formally opened with the acknowledgment of guests and participants delivered by Ms. Simona P. Dela Cruz, CDMS Chief and Training Specialist III, followed by the welcome message of Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, OIC-Center Director of ATI-RTC XII.
A presentation of the course synthesis was delivered by Ms. Ma. Theresa B. Laxamana, Media Production Specialist II, highlighting key learnings and experiences of the participants throughout the training. This was followed by the participants’ impressions shared by Guadalou C. Aguada, Agriculturist I; Kimber A. Salloman, Agriculturist II; Barbie Gail O. Maravilla, Agricultural Technician II; and Fiona Belle R. Cela, Agricultural Technician II of DA-RFO XII.
Messages of support were also delivered by Senator Francis “Kiko” N. Pangilinan, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, and Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. through video presentation, both recognizing the importance of strengthening extension services and empowering agricultural frontliners.
The presentation of graduates was led by Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, followed by their formal acceptance and message from Agricultural Training Institute Director Engr. Remelyn R. Recoter, MNSA, CESO III. In her message, Director Recoter emphasized the importance of the training in strengthening agricultural extension services in the region. She encouraged the graduates to build trust with farmers, develop strong listening skills, and remain mission-driven in their work.
“You are now ready to become quality planting materials to be deployed by the RED. This means you will serve the community—you will be the ‘boots on the ground’ of the DA,” said Engr. Recoter.
As part of the training, participants developed Area-Specific Action Plans (ASAPs) that outline strategies and approaches to better assist farmers in their respective areas.
Meanwhile, DA-RFO XII Regional Executive Director John B. Pascual, DVM, extended his congratulations and appreciation to the participants for their dedication to serving farmers.
“The knowledge and skills that you have gained from this training are vital tools as you work closely with our farmers in support of rural and urban communities,” he said.
