The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) successfully held its second batch of the "Honey-to-Money: Training of Trainers on Beekeeping" from September 16-20, 2024, at its facility in Tantangan, South Cotabato. This 5-day specialized training aimed to equip 24 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), livestock coordinators, and Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) cooperators from various municipalities in Region XII and BARMM with essential beekeeping skills.

Johnny H. Pasaquian, Agriculturist II and Livestock Focal Person at ATI-RTC XII, opened the training, welcoming participants and underscoring the program’s focus on sustainable beekeeping practices. Jey Ann N. Magana, Administrative Officer IV, encouraged participants to maintain their enthusiasm throughout the training, emphasizing the significant potential of beekeeping as an agricultural enterprise.

The training featured Dr. Roland Y. Fajardo, MSc., Associate Professor I at the University of Southern Mindanao, who delivered a comprehensive series of modules on beekeeping technology. His sessions covered essential topics such as the biology and behavior of honeybees, the caste system within bee colonies, and best practices in hive management. Dr. Fajardo also guided participants in understanding the tools and equipment necessary for beekeeping, providing a foundational understanding of bee colony dynamics and maintenance.

Adding practical insights, Mr. Edwin H. Fetalino, owner of Feta Integrated Farm School in South Sepaka, Sultan Kudarat, conducted a hands-on session on managing the native stainless bee, or "kyut." Participants observed Mr. Fetalino’s techniques for honey collection, and he provided valuable tips on sustainable bee farming. The training included interactive demonstrations where participants learned the processes of splitting and re-hiving bee colonies. They also explored transforming bee by-products into marketable items like candles and soap, adding value to their potential beekeeping enterprises.

The training concluded with a closing program led by ATI-RTC XII OIC-Center Director, Jessie V. Beldia, Ph.D., who commended the participants on their dedication and successful completion of the training. He presented Certificates of Completion, highlighting that the program offers Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, beneficial for Agriculturists and Agricultural Biosystems Engineers (ABE).

Facilitated by Errol Chris A. Laspiñas, Alternate Livestock Focal, and Technical Staff Engr. Victor Canlas, the Honey-to-Money training underscores ATI-RTC XII’s commitment to diversifying income sources for farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region. Through this initiative, ATI-RTC XII aims to inspire a new wave of beekeepers who can contribute to both environmental sustainability and rural economic development.