NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte – The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) XIII with the Local Government Unit of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte launched its Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center located in the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) on January 25, 2024.

The one-day event was attended by Hon. Mayor Roscoe Democrito B. Plaza; Hon. Arcelo C. Tamayo, SB Chairman of the Agriculture Committee; Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, OIC-Center Director of ATI Caraga; and Fil Victor A. Babanto, Chief of Information Services Section (ISS); and Lydia A. Apatan, Municipal Agriculturist.

Present also in the activity was Rodel G. Pasion representative from the Caraga State University (CSU) as Partner Agency; Dr. Joseph Dargantes, Provincial Veterinarian, and Ian Marilao from the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga Region Office.

 It was highlighted by the turnover of catalytic fund amounting to one hundred fifty thousand pesos (Php 150,000.00) from ATI Caraga witnessed by the farmer-leaders within the municipality.

Moreover, Jessie Beldia, OIC-Center Director of ATI-RTC XIII, brings up the extension services of the agency for farmers, such as training opportunities inside and outside the country, as well as scholarships for their children.

In his message, Hon. Mayor Plaza, expressed his gratitude the efforts of DA - Caraga, ATI-RTC XIII, and CSU in the dissemination of information on the development of the agriculture industry, particularly in the municipality of Nasipit, and hopes for continuing support for farmers and their family.

The function of the FITS center, under the Techno Gabay Program, which includes the use of IEC materials that are free and can be utilized by farmers, Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), and agri-enthusiasts was discussed by Mr. Babanto, Information Officer III.