A total of 511 rice farmers recently attended a series of technical briefings on the Rice-based Farming System, known as Palayamanan Plus. The activity, organized by the ATI-RTC XIII's Partnership and Accreditation Section, was designed to educate farmers on the benefits, opportunities, and economic impact of Palayamanan Plus.

The briefings were held in 10 batches from August 15 to 28, 2025, at various Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSAs) across the region. These sites included:

• Agusan del Norte: La Modesta Farm and Jovenicas Agritourism Park in Las Nieves
• Agusan del Sur: Seglo Integrated Farm and MAO-Esperanza
• Surigao City: MTJ Farm and MG Panaling Farm
• Surigao del Sur: Emily Integrated Farm in Carrascal and Campos Agricultural Center in San Agustin
• Province of Dinagat Islands: RAGTITTI Inc. Farm and Cayetano

The program was unique because it leveraged the expertise of the LSA cooperators themselves. They acted as partners in facilitating the activities and served as resource persons, sharing their own successful farm practices. The respective Municipal Agriculture Offices personnel also contributed by providing an in-depth discussion on the Palayamanan Plus system.

Key topics covered included the system's core components, the opportunities it offers, and the economic benefits it provides to farmers. LSA cooperators also shared their best practices in farm integration and diversification, highlighting how interconnected farm components not only increase productivity but also enhance on-farm biodiversity.