PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII conducted the “Know Your Rice: An Interactive Rice Information Campaign” on April 20, 2026, at the Municipal Agriculture Office of Prosperidad with the participation of 34 young farmers and youth.
The campaign aimed to enhance food literacy and promote sustainability by engaging participants in interactive activities, discussions, and practical applications that can be practiced at home and in school. It also fostered a deeper appreciation of agriculture by highlighting rice farming as an essential and dignified source of livelihood, while introducing ATI’s programs, services, and opportunities for farmers and the youth.
Maria Den Parro and Ressell Angelie Fetalsana from ATI-RTC XIII presented the institute’s programs and opportunities specifically designed for the youth, encouraging them to actively participate in agricultural initiatives and take advantage of available training, support services, and development programs.
A highlight of the activity was the rice product exhibit featuring the “BlackGold Nutribar”, an innovative snack made primarily from black rice and combined with other nutritious, locally sourced ingredients. These are carefully blended and formed into a convenient and healthy snack bar. The product was presented by Juvriel D. Tenio, Co-founder and Production Manager of BlackGold Food Corporation, a student-led enterprise based in Butuan City.
The participants also gained insights from Juniel Rey Gigaquit, Volunteer Coordinator of Kids Who Farm, a non-profit organization promoting urban gardening, food sustainability, and climate action among students and young community leaders. He introduced the “Gardenator”, an upcycled plastic drum designed as a vertical planter with a built-in composter, allowing multiple crops to grow while converting kitchen waste into organic fertilizer.
As part of the hands-on activity, the participants successfully produced five Gardenators, which will be installed and displayed at the Municipal Agriculture Office, serving as a model for sustainable and space-efficient food production.
