DIPOLOG CITY, Zamboanga del Norte – Two personnel from the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII completed the practicum as part of the Resource Person Development Course on Basic Agricultural Extension from September 15–19, 2025, at the Missio Dei Hotel.

Mary Grace B. Salve, MPS II, and Maria Den B. Parro, Agriculturist II, of ATI-RTC XIII served as resource persons during the Basic Agricultural Extension Course (BAEC) for Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) hosted by ATI-RTC IX. Their participation was the third and final phase of their development course, preparing them to facilitate upcoming BAEC trainings in their home region.

Ms. Maria Den B. Parro (ATI-RTC XIII) discussed Extension Approaches, Strategies, and Methods on Day 2, using interactive activities like role-playing. Ms. Mary Grace B. Salve (ATI-RTC XIII) presented the topic Communication in Extension on Day 3, focusing on the basics, ethical communication, and knowledge management.

Other topics included personal awareness and self-mastery with Ms. Assel Mapayo, ATI-RTC XI, and Ms. Glo Ann Darunday, ATI-RTC IX, and the concepts, trends, and players in agricultural extension delivered by Ms. Mylen C. Espinosa, ATI-RTC IX.

A highlight of the course was the community immersion in the coastal barangays of Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte. The trainees engaged in a one-night homestay to gain firsthand insight into the lives of local fisherfolk.

The final day was dedicated to experience-sharing from the homestay, followed by a closing ceremony. A total of 26 AEWs and 1 Department of Agriculture (DA) personnel received their Certificates for completing the Basic Agricultural Extension Course.