Thirty-two farmer leaders from various Farmers Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) trained at the ATI-RTC 02 Malasin, San Mateo, for an enriching three-day training on the utilization of Biological Control Agents for Corn Production on April 9-11, 2025. The training aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for implementing sustainable pest management techniques.
As part of the training, participants engaged in diverse learning approaches that facilitated active discussions and hands-on activities, ensuring they absorbed the information effectively. The program emphasized knowledge sharing between expert resource speakers and the attendees, creating an engaging and interactive learning environment. This collaborative atmosphere not only deepened the understanding of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) concepts among participants but also fostered a spirit of peer learning and teamwork.
The training featured a roster of esteemed speakers from ATI-RTC 02 and DA-RCPC, who conducted thorough sessions on IPM strategies. These sessions presented various methods, including physical, cultural, and biological control strategies for managing insect pests and diseases that threaten corn crops. To reinforce theoretical knowledge with practical application, a field practicum was incorporated, giving participants hands-on experience in using various biological control agents effectively.
One of the highlights of the program was the participants' enthusiastic feedback. Ms. Lezle T. Mariano, a farmer leader from the Cauayan City Agriculture and Fishery Cooperative, expressed her gratitude for the knowledge she gained. “Marami po akong natutunan sa training na ito, lalo na ang paggamit ng mga biological control agents. Mas maganda pala itong gamitin sa ating mga farm dahil hindi ito nakakasira sa ating environment,” she shared, highlighting the training's positive impact on her perspective towards pest management.
The training not only empowered farmers with a deeper understanding of sustainable practices but also set them on a path toward adopting safer, healthier farming systems. With the knowledge and skills acquired, these farmer leaders are now better equipped to reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides and promote environmentally friendly farming practices in their communities.
~Engr. Johnson Lameg, PAS
