TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur — In a bid to strengthen digital literacy in the agricultural sector, the Agricultural Training Institute -Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII successfully conducted the “Training on Digital Farmers Program (DFP) 101 and 102 for Rural-Based Organizations (RBOs)” from April 28 to 30, 2026, at Shacene Pension House and Restaurant.
The three-day program convened a diverse group of participants, including officers and members of 4-H Clubs, Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs), RBO coordinators, and farmer leaders from across the province. Designed to strengthen their digital capabilities, the training equipped attendees with practical skills ranging from basic smartphone operations to online marketing strategies, enabling them to better adapt to the evolving demands of technology-driven agriculture.
Participants were introduced to a wide range of topics, including responsible social media use, digital communication, cybersecurity practices, and the use of agriculture-related mobile applications. The sessions also covered digital marketing, content creation, and e-extension services, all geared toward improving farm productivity and market access.
One of the highlights of the training was the creation of short video reels through the “Farmer and Youth Tandem.” This activity allowed participants to showcase farming practices while promoting agriculture using social media platforms—an approach that blended creativity with practical application.
For many attendees, the training was more than just a learning experience—it was a confidence builder.
“This training is very informative and highly relevant to the topics discussed,” said Jolly Bee A. Gultiano, an RBO Coordinator from LGU-Cagwait. “It was also fun and enjoyable because the resource speakers were approachable and engaging. The interactive activities made the sessions lively, meaningful, and useful for our future endeavors.”
Gultiano added that the experience encouraged participants to apply their knowledge in their respective communities and agricultural activities.
Similarly, Olive F. Cimine, a member of the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) in Tandag City, expressed appreciation for the program’s practical impact. “Thank you for this training. I believe that the knowledge and skills we gained can be applied in our daily activities and livelihoods. Through this training, I have developed more confidence, and I am now ready to share what I have learned with fellow farmers and RBOs,” she said.
Cimine also noted the importance of continuing such initiatives, emphasizing that the sessions were “empowering, inspiring, and motivating,” and encouraged participants to take an active role in promoting agricultural development through digital means.
Johnry P. Laquinta, a 4-H Club member, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the broader significance of the training. “This activity helped us gain knowledge about how digital tools and new technologies can transform traditional farming into more efficient and sustainable systems,” he said. “Overall, the training was not only about learning new concepts but also about building confidence, inspiring change, and preparing us to become future leaders in agriculture.”
ATI emphasized that digital transformation is no longer optional but essential in modern agriculture. Participants were encouraged to echo their learnings within their communities, particularly to help fellow farmers and rural youth adapt to emerging technologies.
