TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – “I hope that this consultation will answer the need of our Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs). We need the assistance of ATI in the capacitation of AEWs especially towards effective extension delivery. May the proposed trainings and other activities reflect the real need of the people,” says Marcos Quico, Provincial Agriculturist on March 29, 2023.

It was said during the Provincial Consultation Workshop for FY 2025 Agriculture and Fishery Extension (AFE) Needs held at Selades Apartelle Convention Center. The one-day activity was conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII through its Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Unit.

This aims to harmonize AFE needs among extension service providers in preparation for the implementation of full devolution in accordance to Executive Order no. 28 series of 2008.

It was participated by representatives from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), Provincial Veterinary Office, Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Region through its Agricultural Program Coordinating Office (APCO), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). Representatives from the Local Government Units of San Miguel, Bayabas, Bislig City, Carmen, Madrid, San Agustin, Cagwait, Lianga, Lanuza, and Hinatuan also attended.

Moreover, Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) Co-operators were also present in the person of Reynaldo Selades, owner of Selades Agricultural Learning Center, and Ramon Barbosa, owner of Amparitas Integrated Natural Farm.

During its workshop, each agency presented its identified AFE Needs for 2025. Issues, concerns , and agreements were also discussed during the open forum.