The Agricultural Training Institute- Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted the Specialized Training Course on Fruits and Vegetables Postharvest Handling in collaboration with Central Luzon State University (CLSU) held at CLSU, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija on May 7-9, 2024.
The training aimed to equip Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmer leaders with knowledge and skills in regard to the proper handling of fruits and vegetables after harvest.
Dr. Edgar A. Orden, Vice President for Research and Extension, and Director of University Extension Program Office, welcomed the delegates in their world-class institution. He emphasized the role of each individual in the enrichment of agriculture and encouraged everyone to participate in the information dissemination to further improve the economy and the lives of farmers.
The topics were discussed by Dr. Edralina P. Serrano, Ms. Rona Kay G. Franco, Ms. Grace Anne P. Alcantara, and Engr. Ryan Anthony O. Lualhati, from Postharvest Training and Research Center of University of the Philippines Los Baños.
Additionally, the participants were exposed in actual situation in 'Bagsakan ng Gulay' of San Jose City, Nueva Ecija. They were tasked to interview traders on their methods and determine the challenges and inappropriate activities practiced in the market.
Moreover, they also visited KALASAG Multi-purpose Cooperative in San Agustin, San Jose City to observe in their postharvest handling which includes processing, storage, and transport. The team also opted a discussion with the officials of the cooperative to determine their best practices and challenges encountered.
Furthermore, it was concluded with a closing message delivered by Dr. Aldrin E. Badua, Division Head of Technology Promotion and Community Development, where he challenged each participant to partake in the application of what they have learned and share it to others so that it can reach as many stakeholders as possible as postharvest losses greatly impacts the supply of fruits and vegetables in the market and the profit of local farmers.
The training produced a total of 36 completers with 24 delegates from LGUs, 7 from Farmer Cooperatives and Associations, 2 from DA-RFO 3, and 3 representatives from ATI-LSA. The Training Management Team was spearheaded by Ms. Krizzell D. Galang - Training Specialist I, and Dr. Eugenia G. Baltazar - Division Head of CLSU Applied Communication, with Engr. Rannel S. Cruz as Alternate Project Officer, Ms. Maria Loida Irabagon, and OJTs from CLSU: Ms. Jeremhace del Pilar, Ms. AJ Mariane Fernandez, Ms. Angelene dela Cruz, and Mr. Joshua Cabrera.
Written by: RANNEL S. CRUZ
