The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII officially inaugurated the Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) center of the local government unit of Mainit, Surigao del Norte, to expand its reach in disseminating relevant and timely technologies to the farmers and fisherfolk within the area.

A total of 50 individuals, including officers from various farmers and fishers associations and cooperatives, participated in welcoming the new hub, which was held on August 15, 2024.

Jason Paul Dads E. Jampac, ATI-RTC XIII OIC Chief of the Information Services Section, outlined the objectives and components of the Techno-Gabay Program (TGP). He emphasized the features of the FITS center and how the farmers could benefit from its services, including the roles and responsibilities of the FITS staff in its operations.

Antonio C. Peñaflor Jr., OIC Municipal Agriculturist, expressed his gratitude for the support received from ATI and other DA-attached agencies in improving the delivery of extension services to different stakeholders of Mainit.

Honorable Mayor Crisanta O. Mondano graced the event and affirmed the LGU’s active support of the agricultural programs and services implemented through the Municipal Agriculture Office.

OIC Center Director of ATI-RTC XIII, Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, spearheaded the ceremonial turnover of the ICT equipment to the FITS center. Additionally, he encouraged the farmers to maximize the services brought closer to them to access the information and technology via the FITS center to help improve productivity and income.

Also present were Carmela S. Belonio, Project Field Coordinator of the United Nations – Food and Agriculture Organization, Lucia C. Elsisura, MAFC Chairperson, and Jerry B. Acero, Academic Council of the Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU)-Magpayang campus, a representative of the Partner Member Agency.