The Agricultural Training Institute–Central Luzon (ATI–CL) successfully conducted the second batch of the Training on Rice-Based Integrated Farming System on May 26–28, 2026 at Merryland Integrated Farm in Pulilan, Bulacan.
The three-day training aimed to enhance farmers’ knowledge and skills in rice-based integrated farming through lectures, guided discussions, and hands-on activities. The program also aimed to boost farm productivity and encourage farmers to explore additional income opportunities through enterprise-based farm management.
During the opening program, Mr. Jian Castillo, owner of Merryland Integrated Farm, welcomed the participants, while Ms. Jessica N. Datu, Assistant Project Officer, provided an overview of the training. This was followed by Ms. Justine M. Abaco’s discussion on the PalayCheck System, highlighting the concepts and principles of rice-based integrated farming.
On the second day, Mr. Emmanuel Bundoc, owner of Felisidro Farm, shared insights on livestock integration, emphasizing its role in diversifying farm enterprises and maximizing resources. Mr. Elmer N. Cando, Agriculturist II from BFAR, discussed fish culture integration, while Ms. Zarah Jane N. Sendrijas, Agriculturist II of ATI–RTC III, underscored the importance of biomass recycling in promoting sustainable farming systems.
Meanwhile, Ms. Krizzell D. Galang, Training Specialist I, facilitated a session on rice–vegetable farming and introduced livelihood opportunities through rice-based mushroom production. She also encouraged participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset to ensure the sustainability of integrated farming enterprises.
As part of the training, participants engaged in a hands-on practicum on mushroom fruiting bag production and joined an experiential learning tour at Felisidro Farm, where they observed the integration of rice, vegetables, livestock, and farm-to-table practices.
One of the participants, Mr. Norberto E. Tayao, shared his experience, “Marami po akong natutunan sa pag-aaral na ito, hindi lamang pagtatanim ng palay kundi pati pag-aalaga ng mga hayop at gulay. Ang lahat ng aking natutunan ay aking gagawin dahil ito ay maganda para sa akin at makakatulong sa akin.”
At the end of the training, participants prepared re-entry plans containing strategies to establish and strengthen integrated farming practices in their respective farms.
