Strengthening the role of extension workers as catalysts of change in the agricultural sector, the Agricultural Training Institute โ Central Luzon (ATI-CL) has equipped 25 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with business-oriented skills through a 10-day Training on Farm Business School (FBS) for Corn.
Held from April 13 to 22, 2026 at ATI-CL in Singalat, Palayan City, the program focused on transforming the traditional approach to farming by promoting entrepreneurship among corn farmers.
The training aimed to empower AEWs to guide farmers in shifting from subsistence production to market-driven decision-making. โThis training is designed to help farmers become entrepreneurs who can plan, analyze, and grow their farm enterprises,โ quipped Babelyn P. Lopez, Assistant Project Officer.
Rather than relying solely on classroom instruction, the training emphasized hands-on learning. Participants conducted a market survey at the New Sangitan Public Market in Cabanatuan City, where they examined real-time pricing, supply chains, and consumer behavior.
They also visited successful agricultural models through benchmarking activities at Pindangan 2nd Primary Multipurpose Cooperative in Camiling, Tarlac and R.O. Valerio Integrated Farm in Bacolor, Pampanga. These field experiences provided insights into effective farm management, operational strategies, and market positioning.
Retired ATI-CL staff Lily Dela Cruz led technical sessions on key business principles, including enterprise planning, goal setting, and profitability assessmentโcritical components in building sustainable farm operations.
A major output of the training was the development and presentation of farm business plans by the participants, which they are expected to cascade to farmers in their respective areas. โMas nakita ko po sa training na ito ang mga tipong pangangailangan lalo na sa market survey natin tapos sa benchmarking, mas naramdaman ko ang mga farmers especially ang kooperatiba(Tarlac) na makikita mo ang improvement kung paano nagsimula hanggang maging successful,โ Darren Christopher Torres, participant said.
As a next step, the AEWs formulated re-entry plans to establish and strengthen Farm Business Schools in their communities, ensuring that the knowledge gained from the training reaches grassroots farmers.
Written by: Neil Mcwyane A. Diwa
