ATI-RTC 02 conducts intensive Training on Corn-Based Diversified Farming Systems

The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 02 conducted a three-day intensive Training on Corn-Based Diversified Farming Systems on April 14 to 16, 2025, at the ATI-RTC 02, Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela.

Thirty-two farmer leaders from various municipalities in the region had successfully completed the training. This training aimed to deepen the participants' knowledge and skills while enriching their mindsets—crucial for adopting sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices that enhance both productivity and profitability.

To facilitate effective learning, a wide variety of methodologies and approaches were employed throughout the program. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and hands-on activities, allowing them to absorb concepts in an engaging way. The training also included sessions for knowledge sharing between resource persons and attendees, fostering a collaborative learning environment that emphasized peer learning and strengthened relationships among participants.

Expert resource persons from ATI-RTC 02, together with Mr. Arnel R. Santiago, a Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSA) cooperator, provided valuable insights on inland fishing as a component of the corn-based diversified farming system. Other topics covered included vegetable production, livestock and poultry management. Additionally, essential subjects such as corn silage production, feed formulation, and sustainable land resource management were integrated into the curriculum. These elements cultivated a deeper appreciation among participants for diversification strategies that can support sustainable, climate-resilient, and profitable farming systems.

The blend of lecture discussions with the sharing of best practices from experienced farmer leaders made the learning experience both engaging and impactful. One participant, Mr. Dyril Kleine Dacanay from Doña Amparo Training Center, Inc., reflected on the training’s significance. “My learning in this training is actually a realization that the perspective on new technology introduced to a target trainee population cannot be changed but rather only influenced, and I hope it is embraced and implemented,” Dacanay said.

Furthermore, participants also had the benchmarking activities at successful learning sites in San Guillermo and San Mateo, Isabela. These visits allowed them to witness firsthand implementation of diversified and sustainable farming systems, enhancing their understanding and commitment to adopting innovative agricultural practices.

As the training concluded, the farmer leaders emerged empowered with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to implement sustainable, profitable, and climate-resilient farming practices through diversified farming systems. With their newfound insights, these leaders are poised to make a positive impact on their communities and the broader agricultural landscape in the region.

~Engr. Johnson Lameg, PAS