BUTUAN CITY – The Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII awarded certificates of completion to 29 new Local Farmer Technicians (LFTs) who completed the Training on Rice Production Technologies held on August 11–20, 2025. 

The 10-day training equipped participants with the latest technologies in rice production, mechanization, and extension work values, preparing them to assist Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in delivering rice extension activities in their localities. The program featured six modules that covered transformational leadership, the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP), the PalayCheck System and its nine KeyChecks, rice machinery operation and safety, ICT-based technologies for farming, and facilitation skills with a micro-teaching activity.

Aligned with its terminal objective, the training ensured that participants gained both technical know-how and leadership values essential for extension work. The enabling objectives ranged from discussing rice morphology and management practices, demonstrating farm machinery operation, and exploring ICT-based tools, to strengthening facilitation and communication skills.

OIC-Center Director Noemi Beth G. Macario underscored the significance of the program, saying, “This training is a significant step to gradually achieve food security and improve the livelihood of our farmers. By strengthening the capacity of our LFTs, we are also strengthening agriculture at the local level.” 

One of the participants, Jonathan Manlangit from LGU-Buenavista, also shared that the training boosted his confidence to help fellow farmers by teaching them and applying what he learned in his own farm.