Quezon City, Philippines — Fifty young Filipino farmers from across the country are set to embark on a transformative journey to Taiwan as part of the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan (FYFIPT).
The send-off ceremony, held on November 11, 2024 at the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) RDEC Building in Diliman, Quezon City, marked the culmination of Pre-Departure Orientation Course, as participants were officially sent off to undergo 11 months of specialized training focused on modern agricultural technologies and entrepreneurship.
The interns, selected from various regions across the Philippines, will participate in an 11-month intensive training program focusing on modern agricultural technologies, entrepreneurial strategies, and cooperative management. The program highlights Taiwan’s state-of-the-art agricultural practices, including hybrid farming systems, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, automation, and smart farming techniques.
During the send-off ceremony, Director IV of the ATI Engr. Remelyn Recoter underscored the significance of the program as a response to the aging population of farmers and the low participation rate of younger generations in the industry. “The youth must be the catalyst for change in the agricultural sector. This is your chance to grow, learn, and develop leadership skills that will help transform the future of farming in the Philippines. Not everyone is chosen for this opportunity, but you have been. You are the future farmer leaders,” said Director Recoter in her welcome message.
Atty. Tomas M. Guno, Representative of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office, encouraged the participants to seize the opportunity to become not only skilled farmers but also agricultural entrepreneurs. “The skills you acquire in Taiwan will help you become leaders in your communities and serve as catalysts for the growth of the agricultural sector in the Philippines. Take this time to learn, grow, and then share your knowledge and experiences with others,” Atty. Guno stated.
Michael T.S. Li, Deputy Representative of the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office, highlighted the integration of advanced technology in modern farming practices, emphasizing how the youth can benefit from the innovative approaches used in Taiwan’s agriculture. “With hybrid technologies, IoT applications, intelligent automation, and cutting-edge farming techniques, you will have the chance to learn how to improve the productivity and sustainability of your farms back home,” Minister Li remarked.
Chief Agriculturist Anne Lisbo of the Department of Agriculture-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (DA-AMAS) reaffirmed the government’s support for the interns. She announced the availability of funding for post-internship proposals and encouraged the young farmers to maximize their learning experience. “We challenge you to not only absorb the knowledge but to make it applicable and transformative for Philippine agriculture,” Ms. Lisbo said.
The program also places a strong emphasis on developing leadership qualities, and the participants will be able to hone these skills throughout their internship. The exposure to high-tech farming systems will allow them to apply their newfound knowledge and practices to enhance agricultural production in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, ATI Deputy Director Antonieta Arceo expressed excitement for the program’s continued growth, with this being the first time to host two batches of young farmers in a single year. “The ATI is committed to supporting you, not just during the internship, but beyond. We will continue to be there for you as you integrate the technologies and methodologies learned in Taiwan to help improve your farming practices here in the Philippines,” Arceo assured.
The FYFIPT aims to address the pressing issues of an aging farmer population and declining youth engagement in agriculture. The program integrates leadership development into its curriculum, ensuring participants return as well-rounded professionals capable of fostering growth in their communities.
Families, local government officials, and 4-H coordinators from ATI-Regional Training Centers attended the ceremony, sharing their pride and support for the young farmers. The interns, many of whom come from rural areas, carry with them the aspirations of their communities as they prepare to embark on this transformative journey.
The 50 trainees are scheduled to depart for Taiwan on November 12, 2024, to begin their immersive training. The experience is expected to empower them to contribute to the competitiveness and sustainability of Philippine agriculture, ensuring food security and economic resilience for future generations.
The Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan underscores the Philippine government’s commitment to fostering innovation and youth participation in agriculture, a sector pivotal to the nation’s progress and development.
