Wed, 05/28/2025 - 10:10

Koronadal City – Starting today until May 30, 2025, thirty farmer leaders from South Cotabato are participating in the Digital Farmers Program (DFP) Farm Learning at the FITS Training Hall, RADOS Building, OPAg Compound. This initiative, conducted in support of the Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System (PAFES), aims to close the digital gap in agriculture by equipping participants with essential skills in digital tools and smart farming technologies.

Dr. Raul D. Teves, DVM, delivered an inspiring message during the opening program, encouraging participants to embrace digital tools to help promote precision farming and boost productivity in the province. Mr. Teofilo T. Jumawan, Jr., Planning Officer II, provided the training overview, while Jayson V. Abang, DMO I, co-facilitated the sessions. Together, they set the stage for a transformative learning experience that brings digital literacy directly to the field.

Over the course of three days, participants will engage in hands-on sessions that explore a range of smart agriculture technologies including weather and crop management apps, QR codes, social media for marketing, e-commerce platforms, and online payment systems like PayMaya. A highlight of the training is the live demonstration of drone seeding and spraying—bringing innovation into practical, real-world use. Marnil Del Monte, MPS II of ATI-RTC XII, is leading these sessions, guiding learners through practical applications to strengthen their digital confidence.

Beyond technology, DFP Farm Learning empowers these farmer-leaders to serve as catalysts for change in their respective communities. Equipped with new knowledge, they are expected to improve farm productivity, expand market access, and advocate for the integration of tech-based solutions in local agriculture. Programs like DFP help pave the way for a more connected, inclusive, and progressive agricultural sector in South Cotabato.

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