The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted a Training of Trainers on Value Chain Approach to Corn Production and Management among Agricultural Extension Workers or corn coordinators in the region. This Β initiative took place at the ATI RTC 3 Satellite Office, Brgy. Singalat, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, spanning from February 26 to March 1, 2024 for the 1st Phase; and on March 17-22, 2024 for the 2nd Phase.
The training programβs terminal objective is to equip participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to spearhead sustainable, productive, and profitable corn production through the assimilation of value chain approach and science-based methodologies. With this overarching goal, the training aimed not only to impart theoretical understanding but also to cultivate practical expertise that participants could implement in their respective communities.
Ms. Janice S. Fabian, a participant, shared that she learned the business side of corn production through the training. βMarami po akong natutunan sa resource speakers at sa kapwa farmers and AEWs. Nadagdagan po ang aking kaalaman sa pagtatanim ng mais at business side nito. Maraming salamat sa oportunidad na ako ay matuto at pinagkatiwalaan na maging partner sa pagtuturo sa kapwa natin farmer,"Β Fabian added.
Throughout the duration of the program, the participants were also immersed in hands-on experiences. Dr. Jayvee Bryan Carillo, Ms. Reinalyn Gulen, Ms. Mariel B. Baldoz, Ms. Ruth S. Reyes and Mr. Jayson Nidua from ATI-CL; Ms. Biverly Calderon from LGU-Rizal, Nueva Ecija; Mr. Arnel Abayan of PLGU-Zambales; Mr. Christopher Ryan G. Banaag of LGU-Palayan City, Nueva Ecija; Mr. Evergilio M. Aquino Jr.; and Ms. Marietta D. Agregado of DA-RFO 3; Mr. Mark Anthony L. Parducho from UPLB; served as pool of trainers and facilitators of the training.
The graduates of the said training will implement a municipal-level Farmersβ Field School (FFS) on Corn Production and Management.