The Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) conducted the first batch of the Training on Mechanized Rice Crop Establishment for Farm Cluster Association members and leaders. The training aimed to equip the participants with the knowledge, skills, attitude, and practices on mechanized rice crop establishment.

The program sought to address rice farmers' concerns and promote sustainable crop establishment methods. Despite its poor popularity among Filipino farmers, mechanizing rice crop establishment can improve efficiency, crop stand, and yields, resulting in increased production when compared to traditional methods.

Thirty Farmer Cluster leaders and members from different Rice Farm Clusters who are beneficiaries of the rice transplanters across Region 02 endorsed by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) attended the training at the ATI-RTC 02 on June 26-28, 2024 (Batch 1).

Participants engaged in lectures, hands-on, and discussions covering various topics including Status of Mechanized Rice Farming in Region 02, Overview of Rice Mechanization in the Philippines, and crop establishment.

Mr. Ron Romell Perez of St. Vincent Parish Multipurpose Cooperative in Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya said that he learned new techniques on the training. "I learned a lot from this training. I learned how to improve crop establishment, also how to operate farm machineries. I learned new techniques and how to apply proper organic and synthetic fertilizer. This training is very educational and enjoying.  Thank you, ATI-RTC 02 for inviting us in this training,’’ he said.