TANTANGAN, South Cotabato — On July 3, 2024, thirty rice farmer leaders from Tantangan wrapped up a transformative three-day training on Duck Production Technology combined with the Integrated Rice-Based Farming System. This training, organized by ATI-RTC XII, aims to equip local farmers with knowledge and practical skills to enhance income and sustainability through rice-duck farming integration.

Ms. Abigail C. Garcia, a professional food technologist, led the participants in a hands-on session on value-added duck egg production, teaching them how to create traditional delicacies such as puto, puto flan, leche flan, as well as items like mayonnaise and salted eggs. These new skills are expected to create additional income opportunities for the farmers by diversifying their products.

To aid the farmers in implementing these practices, the institute will provide Muscovy ducks, well-suited for pest management within rice paddies and known for their high egg productivity. This support ensures that the farmers have essential resources to integrate their new skills into practical farming operations.

The training successfully fostered community enthusiasm and commitment to sustainable agriculture. By developing these capabilities among local farmers, ATI-RTC XII aims to improve economic stability, encourage environmentally friendly farming, and set an example for other regions committed to agricultural innovation and resilience.