BUTUAN CITY — Strengthening the region’s capacity for science-based and sustainable agriculture, the Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII recently conducted a Training of Trainers (TOT) on the Farmer-Scientists Training Program (FSTP) on April 27–29, 2026, at the Golden Tara Hall in Los Angeles, Butuan City.
The three-day training gathered 25 participants representing Provincial and Local Government Units (PLGUs and LGUs), Agusan del Sur State University (ADSSU), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Caraga. The activity aimed to develop a pool of competent trainers who can effectively implement and sustain the FSTP at the community level.
Designed as a capacity-building initiative, the training focused on strengthening participants’ technical, research, and facilitation skills essential in delivering the FSTP. Sessions provided a comprehensive understanding of the program’s framework, principles, and operational strategies, equipping participants to guide farmers through science-based agricultural practices.
Participants were immersed in hands-on and practical discussions on field experimentation, including farm layout, planting techniques, fertilizer application, and data gathering, processing, and analysis. The training also emphasized resource complementation, fund sourcing opportunities, and the development of localized action plans for FSTP implementation.
In addition, the program covered key agricultural competencies such as pre- and post-harvest management in corn production, integrated nutrient and pest management, crop-animal integration, and proper recording of farm transactions. Leadership and community organizing skills were also highlighted to ensure effective program rollout at the local level.
University Research Associates Philip Oween Mijares, Byron Amadeus Cayabyab, Bernard Panabang, and Jay Mark Ian Caindoy from the Farmer-Scientists Training Program – Agricultural Systems Institute – College of Agriculture and Food Science – University of the Philippines Los Baños (FSTP-ASI-CAFS-UPLB) served as resource speakers, delivering valuable insights and technical guidance to the participants.
As a result, participants gained a deeper understanding of the FSTP and enhanced their ability to conduct field-based learning activities. They also identified potential funding sources and crafted re-entry plans to support the program's implementation in their respective communities.
For Kathlene Grace M. Supas of LGU-Magallanes, Agusan del Norte, the training proved to be both timely and transformative.
“My impression of the TOT on Farmer-Scientist Training is that it is a valuable capacity-building initiative that enhances farmers’ knowledge and skills in science-based, climate-smart, and sustainable agricultural practices,” Supas shared. “It also enhances the competencies of agriculture extension workers in delivering effective field services, technical support, and practical insights throughout the training. Overall, this program promotes agricultural productivity, innovations, and effective extension service delivery, and I am grateful to have been part of this valuable learning experience.”
With a new batch of trained facilitators, ATI-RTC XIII continues to expand its efforts in empowering communities through knowledge-driven agriculture—ensuring that farmers are equipped not only with skills, but also with the scientific foundation needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
