The Agricultural Training Institute โ Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted the Basic Agricultural Extension Course (BAEC) from May 11 to 15, 2026, at the ATI Regional Training Center III in San Ramon, Dinalupihan, Bataan, bringing together agricultural extension workers and community development practitioners from across the region.
The five-day training aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of agricultural extension workers (AEWs) in effectively engaging with farmers and rural communities. The course focused on communication, community engagement, leadership, and the proper delivery of agricultural services and information.
The activity opened with discussions on the fundamentals of agricultural extension, current trends in the sector, and the critical role extension workers play in helping farmers improve their livelihoods and farming practices.
Babelyn P. Lopez, Training Specialist II, led sessions on various agricultural extension approaches and methods, emphasizing effective ways to deliver information and services to farming communities. Participants also took part in case analysis activities to apply concepts discussed during the training.
On the second day, Eula Dee A. Laรฑada, Information Officer III, discussed communication basics, communication ethics, and knowledge management. The session highlighted the importance of clear and effective communication in working with farmers and other stakeholders.
In the afternoon, Krizzell D. Galang, Training Specialist I, facilitated discussions on personal awareness, self-discovery, and self-mastery. Participants also underwent personality assessment activities using MBTI tools to better understand their strengths and working styles.
The third day centered on community work and engagement. Dr. Geena H. Pingol discussed social mobilization and the importance of understanding the needs and situations of rural communities. To further enhance learning, participants joined role-playing activities simulating actual community scenarios.
Before the community immersion activity, Elsa F. Victoria, Training Specialist III, oriented participants on homestay guidelines, journal writing, and daily log preparation. Participants later met and interacted with their assigned host farm families before proceeding to their respective immersion areas.
As part of the activity, the participants stayed with host farm families to observe and experience firsthand the daily lives and challenges of farmers in their communities.
The training concluded on May 15 with participants sharing their experiences and insights gained from the immersion activity. They also completed post-tests, workshop activities, and course evaluations before the closing program and awarding of certificates.
During the closing program, Elizear R. Sapinoro, an AEW from Mayantoc, Tarlac, shared how the training helped new extension workers understand the foundations of their profession.
โNoong una ko pong nakita at nalaman na ang dadaluhan kong pagsasanay ay may titulong Basic Agricultural Extension Course, naisip ko po na ito talaga ang training para sa aming mga baguhan bilang AEWs upang maintindihan namin ang pundasyon ng pagiging extension worker. Tulad po ng bata na unti-unting tinuturuan maglakad, ganoon din po kami ngayonโunti-unting hinuhubog upang maging mabuti at maayos na extension worker,โ Sapinoro said.
The said 5-day training forms part of the instituteโs continuing efforts to strengthen the capabilities of AEWs in Central Luzon, equipping them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values to better serve farming communities and contribute to sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Written by: Charls Angelou C. Inieto
