Thirty-three Agricultural Extension Workers across region 2 attended the Training of Trainers on the PalayCheck System at the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center on March 3 to 14, 2025. The training aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in sustainable rice production using the PalayCheck System, equipping AEWs to effectively transfer this knowledge to farmers in their respective areas.
The training kicked off with the acknowledgments from Mr. Jhimcelle V. Salvador, OIC-Assistant Center Director and chief of CDMS, who recognized the dedication of the participants. Dr. Claris Marayag-Alaska, the OIC-Center Director of the ATI-RTC 02, warmly welcomed everyone, setting a positive tone for the sessions that followed. Mr. Jei-ar M. Limos, TSS II, provided an insightful overview of the course and the set schedule of activities.
Throughout the training, AEWs engaged in a variety of technical sessions led by experts in rice production. Topics covered include the morphology and growth stages of rice plant, the foundational framework of the PalayCheck System, and the significance of KeyChecks in fostering a productive and sustainable farming approach. Essential themes such as crop establishment, nutrient management, pest and disease control, water-saving technologies, and efficient farm management practices were discussed.
Hands-on learning was emphasized through practical exercises and field demonstrations, including Agroecosystem Analysis (AESA) and machine operation. “This training is very timely and relevant for me as an AEW,” said Ms. Jameela D. Lara from Lal-lo, Cagayan. “Dahil alam naman nating lahat na we should be knowledgeable in our line of duty. I know that a lot of us are seasoned AEWs, but some of us here are still sprouting seeds from this field. That’s why this training is essential for everyone,” she added.
In addition, the AEWs designed training proposals for implementation in their respective municipalities. A panel of experts reviewed and endorsed 10 municipalities for the establishment of Farmer Field Schools (FFS), ensuring that the newly acquired skills are promptly utilized in the field.
Engr. Marjory G. Mallilin from Office of the Provincial Agriculture Office – Isabela provided her impressions of the training, stating, “I was inspired by my co-participants not just absorbing the knowledge and new technologies shared on this training but also actively planning on how to implement it. For sure, it will help us in advancing sustainable agriculture in our communities,” Mallilin said.
By rice experts and specialists from partner agencies such as PhilRice Isabela, BPI-NQCS, DA-RCPC, FPA, DA-RFO 02, SACDECO, and ATI delivered lectures covering the Rice Integrated Crop Management as holistic approach and sustainable farming. As part of the training, hands-on activities, practical exercises on Agroecosystem Analaysis (AESA) and basic rice machinery operations were conducted at SACDECO, Santiago City.
The Training of Trainers on the PalayCheck System equipped the AEWs with the technical knowledge and practical skills essential for enhancing rice production and improving the livelihoods of farmers in the region. The insights gained from this training will serve as a cornerstone for implementing effective, science-based farming practices across Region 2.
by Jei-ar Limos
