The Agricultural Training Institute โ Central Luzon (ATI-CL) successfully conducted the OA LevelUp 2: Capability Building for Local Government Units on Organic Agriculture for Kababaihan at Kabataan para sa Kalusugan, Kalikasan at Kabuhayan (5Ks) from April 27 to May 1, 2026, at the Merryland Integrated Farm and Training Center Inc. in Pulilan, Bulacan.
The five-day training aimed to enhance the technical capabilities of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in implementing communal organic gardens and promoting sustainable agriculture practices across their respective local government units (LGUs).
Participants underwent a series of comprehensive discussions and hands-on activities covering organic farming technologies, garden planning and management, and the efficient use of locally available resources. The program also emphasized the critical role of community engagement, particularly the active participation of women and youth, in advancing food security, environmental sustainability, and livelihood opportunities.
A total of 21 AEWs from various LGUs in Central Luzon completed the training. Throughout the sessions, participants demonstrated strong engagement in workshops, discussions, and practical exercises, reflecting their commitment to applying the knowledge and skills gained in their communities.
As a key output, participants developed initial plans and strategies for establishing and managing communal gardens aligned with the objectives of the 5Ks Program. The initiative forms part of ATI-RTC IIIโs continuing efforts to empower extension workers and strengthen grassroots delivery of agricultural services.
Officials expressed optimism that the training would lead to improved access to healthy and sustainable food, increased community participation, and the creation of environment-friendly livelihood opportunities in participating areas.
The training featured resource persons from the Department of Agriculture โ National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP), including Development Management Officer III Crissel A. Tenolete, Administrative Assistant III Khorina Nina S. Padilla, and Development Management Officer II Maricris A. Locquiao. They were joined by Agriculturist II Zarah Jane N. Sendrijas of ATI-RTC III.
Following the training, participants shared positive feedback on its impact. Edcel F. Jaime, Administrative Assistant II from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Tarlac, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative.
โThis training is essential for sustainability. Since LGUs are the frontliners of agricultural extension, it ensures that national organic policies do not just remain on paper but are implemented in barangays,โ Jaime said. โIt is not just about plantingโit is about advocacy. It connects environmental protection directly to family health and community income.โ
He also emphasized the programโs focus on inclusivity and future readiness. โBy focusing on women and youth, the program addresses the aging farmers crisis. It positions farming as a modern and socially responsible career for the next generation,โ he added.
Written by: Royz Lander S. Diwa
