The Agricultural Training Institute—Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) recently wrapped up its final batch of the Mechanized Rice Crop Establishment program for Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs). Held from June 9 to 11, 2025, at the ATI-RTC 02 Center in Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela, the training aimed to equip local farmers with essential technical knowledge, operational skills, and the right mindset for adopting mechanized rice farming.

The training featured lectures and practical demonstrations led by the resource speakers from ATI and the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech). Mr. Jei-ar M. Limos highlighted the importance of proper field preparation and seedling requirements, underlining how these factors significantly influence farm productivity and profitability. Engr. Mandy Dela Cruz provided insights into various machines used for land preparation, while Engr. Ry Duyag offered an in-depth overview of the current state of rice mechanization in Region 2 and throughout the Philippines. He also conducted a detailed session on the operation and maintenance of the mechanical rice transplanter.

A standout feature of the training was its strong focus on hands-on learning. Participants had the opportunity to operate a mechanical rice transplanter, seeder, and four-wheel tractor during a field practicum at SACDECO Farm School in Santiago City, Isabela. An open forum facilitated by Mr. Jhimcelle V. Salvador encouraged participants to voice their concerns and questions regarding mechanized crop establishment.

Ms. Harmony Grace W. Ataggoy, a member of the Integrated Farmers Association of San Mariano, Isabela, expressed her gratitude for the training, “Dayto a training ket inikkan nak ti opportunity nga maadal dagiti makabagong teknolohiya nga mausar para iti pagsasaka ken nadagdagan iti kaalamak iti tungkol iti panagtalon.” (This training gave me the opportunity to learn about new technologies that can be used in farming and has increased my knowledge in agriculture.)

Her positive feedback echoes the broader impact of the training, which served as an essential platform for knowledge sharing and skill development.

~Mr. Jei-ar Limos