SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur - The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) has successfully conducted the Provincial Consultation Workshop for FY 2026 Agriculture and Fishery Extension (AFE) Needs for the Province of Agusan del Sur on March 20, 2024 at Mabes Savory Place.

The activity aims to harmonize AFE needs among extension service providers and stakeholders in preparation for the implementation of full devolution by Executive Order No. 28 series of 2008.

It was participated by representatives from the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), Municipal Agriculture Offices, and Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) Cooperators, from the province of Agusan del Sur.

Nena Lomuntad, Planning Officer II of ATI-RTC XIII, gave the rationale for the activity. She also explained the trust, priorities, and policy directions of the institute. She also presented the FY 2023 physical accomplishment report and the FY 2024 Work and Financial Plan (WFP), Moreover, a briefing on ATI’s UNExSyS AEW Registry System was also done.

During the workshop, each partner agency, LGU, LSAs, and other organizations presented their top five priority training needs for 2026. The training on capability enhancement for AEWs, RBOs, and farmer associations and training on crop/livestock production, processing, value-adding, and marketing were identified as the trainings requested by most of the participants.

Caesar Burdeos, Municipal Agriculturist of San Luis and League of Municipal Agricultural Officers / Municipal and City Agriculturists of the Philippines (LeMMCAP) Caraga Region President, encouraged everyone to support the trainings that would capacitate and enhance the skills of the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs). Through this, the development of the AFE sector at the local level will surely happen and programs intended for the community will be implemented effectively and efficiently.