A three-day Technical Guidance Session (TGS) on Extension Advisory and Services for Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) and farmer-leaders was held from April 14 to 16, 2025 at the ATI Regional Training Center II in Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela. The training aimed to strengthen the MS’s role as grassroots extension partners in promoting sustainable and science-based agricultural practices in their communities.
On the first day, Dr. Claris Marayag-Alaska, OIC Center Director of ATI Region 2, welcomed the participants with an encouraging message. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in agricultural development, saying, “Through your assistance, through our partnership and collaboration, we can definitely continue improving food production here in Region 2. I hope you keep creating interventions to further boost your productivity and help feed even more regions. As the capacity builder of the Department of Agriculture and the Philippine Extension System, we remain committed to empowering farmer-leaders like you—our Magsasaka Siyentista.”
Participants then explored foundational topics as Ms. Jolina Sanchez, Technical Support Staff II, reviewed the Techno Gabay Program (TGP), emphasizing its goals and clearly outlining their roles and responsibilities. Mr. Vladimir B. Caliguiran, Officer-in-Charge assistant center director of ATI Region 2, led the next session on the Basics of Extension helping participants understand and improve their roles as local extension workers.
The second day featured benchmarking visits to model MS farms in Isabela. These included JICA’s Farm in Cabatuan, owned by Hon. Jomar Jarvinia, President of the Magsasaka Siyentista Association in Region 2; R&D Oliveros Farm in Roxas owned by Engr. Ramon Oliveros, the association’s Vice President; and AR Santiago Farms in San Mateo, owned by Mr. Arnel Santiago. The hands-on experience allowed participants to observe best practices, exchange ideas, and gain insights that they could implement on their own farms.
On the final day, participants focused on communication and outreach. Ms. Shaye Fontanilla, Information Officer II, led a session on Social Media Marketing, encouraging MS to use digital platforms to share agricultural innovations and success stories. Ms. Francisca C. Yuro, the project officer, then presented a session on Extension Approaches and Modalities, reinforcing effective methods to reach and support other farmers.
To ensure that their new knowledge is put into practice, all participants completed re-entry plans detailing how they will apply and share what they’ve learned in their respective communities. This initiative highlights the ATI’s commitment to empowering local farmer-leaders and strengthening the agricultural extension system across the country.
