A five-day Training of Trainers (TOT) on Rice Production, spearheaded by Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon, successfully equipped Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with updated knowledge and practical skills from April 13 to 17, 2026, at Merryland Integrated Farm and Training Center Inc., Pulilan, Bulacan.
The training brought together 32 AEWs from various municipalities across Region III, aiming to strengthen their capacity to deliver effective technical assistance to farmers. The program emphasized modern rice production technologies, relevant agricultural policies, improved farming practices, mechanization, and climate-resilient strategies.
The event formally opened with welcome remarks from farm owner Jian Carlo Castillo, followed by a message from Reinalyn C. Gulen, Officer-in-Charge Assistant Center Director, Senior Agriculturist, and Rice Program Focal Person. Participants were oriented on the training framework through a course overview presented by Jessica N. Datu, Alternate Project Officer.
A comprehensive discussion on the rice industry situation in Central Luzon was delivered by Billy Roy Anthony Aquino of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office III, providing insights into current trends and challenges affecting the sector.
Key sessions included digital farming innovations, where Meamette Y. Rosario, Technical Support Staff IV, introduced ICT-based tools to support data-driven agricultural practices. The Rice Crop Manager (RCM) KeyCheck approach was also highlighted through discussions led by Ms. Gulen, Christian T. Ramos, Regional Seed Coordinator of DA-RFO III.
To reinforce classroom learning, participants engaged in a hands-on field activity on April 16, applying various mechanization techniques using equipment such as walk-behind and riding-type transplanters, four-wheel tractors, and combine harvesters. The activity was facilitated by Mario V. Pascua, Ramil R. Carbonel, Neil Joshua E. Santiago, and Irish R. Arambulo, from DA-PhilMech. Discussions on the Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Law and occupational safety and health were also conducted.
On the final day, participants demonstrated their learning through a microteaching activity, presenting assigned topics and showcasing effective strategies in delivering technical information as resource persons. The training concluded with the presentation of re-entry plans, outlining how participants intend to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in their respective municipalities.
The initiative underscores ongoing efforts to enhance agricultural extension services and promote sustainable, technology-driven rice production in Central Luzon.
Written by: Jessica N. Datu
