The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 2 awarded Certificates of Completion to six BS in Information Technology students from Isabela State University - San Mariano Campus for the successful completion of their 486 Hours On-the Job Training. A culminating activity was held on May 6, 2025 at Conference Hall, ATI-RTC 2, Malasin San Mateo, Isabela to recognize their achievement.
The event was attended by their OJT-Coordinator, Dr. Sherwin Ravana, along with various ATI section heads and representatives, and was graced by the presence of the OIC Center Director, Dr. Claris Marayag-Alaska.
The students presented their narrative report and highlighted their experiences and accomplishments during their OJT. They were immersed in the institution’s core values, which helped shape their personal and professional growth. As they combined what they learned from different sections and units, they gained a better overall understanding and were able to connect knowledge across various commodities.
“Na-boost po yung confidence namin. As a student undergoing my OJT at ATI-RTC 2, I gained more than just technical experience—I learned life lessons that shaped my attitude and work ethics. Being part of a government training institution allowed me to see how important it is to support and educate others. I realized that even simple tasks like preparing materials, assisting trainers, and handling documentation play a big role in helping others learn and grow,” said Ms. Myra Balbin, OJT from Isabela State University.
Mr. Vladimir Caliguiran, OIC-Assistant Center Director/ISS Chief, praised the OJTs as one of the best batches, saying they truly left a mark and became part of the ATI family. He admired how they kept up with staff even during overtime and noted that while skills can be taught, their character and attitude stood out. He emphasized the value of their IT experience across different ATI sections and encouraged them to apply what they’ve learned in real-life work settings. He expressed hope they will continue to support ATI and promote it in their university. He closed by thanking them for their hard work and patience.
“Maganda yung IT na experience ninyo, na apply ninyo or nakita nyo yun sa iba’t-ibang sections sa ATI and later on narealize nyo kung paano mai-apply ang information technology sa administrative works, information services and trainings. I hope na makatulong yung mga natutunan niyo sa amin and I hope na may babalik sa inyo, sana magka-special project nga and we hope na paglabas niyo ng ATI, katulungan namin kayo sa pagpromote kung ano ang ATI, to encourage din yung mga students from your university. Thank you for your patience and sa lahat ng bagay na ginawa ninyo sa pagtulong ninyo sa amin,” said Mr. Caliguiran.
Dr. Claris Marayag-Alaska, OIC-Center Director, congratulates the OJTs and thanked the ISU-San Mariano for the partnership. She highlighted how the students saw the diverse functions of ATI and successfully connected their IT skills to real work. She expressed joy at witnessing their transformation—from shy to confident—and encouraged them to stay open to learning, embrace feedback with joy, and build trust in their future workplaces. She also thanked them for their support during ATI activities and recognized their dedication and professionalism. Lastly, she hopes some may return as ATI employees and that their capstone projects contribute further to ATI’s work.
“Gusto kong iwan ito sa inyo, first, sana maging open kayo sa mga new learnings, sana hindi kayo mag stop na matuto kahit kayo ay tapos na. Second is kailangan nandun lagi yun joy sa inyo kapag kayo ay sinabihan ng mga weaknesses niyo, accept it as a challenge for you to improve yourself. And third is gain or build yung trust ng papasukan ninyo later on na opisina. Open, Joy and andun yung Trust. And nagpapasalamat kami dahil hindi lang kami ‘yung nakapagturo sa inyo kundi kayo din, malaking bagay kayo sa amin especially during mga trainings namin. Sabi nyo nga, kahit pagod na, hindi nyo pinapakita yung pagod niyo,” said Dr. Alaska.
Mr. Sherwin S. Ravana, OJT Coordinator of ISU-San Mariano delivers his heartfelt thanks for the assistance and guidance of ATI. He said that he was overwhelmed with the feedback from the different section heads and representatives. He also mentioned that this opportunity for their interns/OJTs has developed their students to exposed in real work challenge.
During their three-month stay at ATI, the students didn’t just acquire knowledge and skills—they grew as individuals. They formed genuine bonds with the staff, turning mentors into friends and the workplace into a second home. These relationships nurtured their confidence and shaped a strong, positive attitude toward work. The sense of camaraderie they built with the team became a source of encouragement and strength, not just for the students but for the staff as well. In fact, the presence and dedication of the OJTs left a lasting impression, with many staff members expressing how much their contributions were valued and deeply appreciated.
Writer: Geraldine Baligat
