The Agriculture Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with Jose F. Rodriguez School of Technology and Entrepreneurship Inc., conducted the training on βKatutubo Pinatubo: Training Course on Natural and Sustainable Farming Systems for Indigenous Peoples (IPs)," held at San Narciso, Zambales, on July 3β5, 2024.
The training aimed to promote sustainable agricultural practices among the indigenous communities in Central Luzon.
A total of thirty (30) indigenous peoples from different parts of Zambales participated, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge in sustainable farming.
Engr. Joe Harvey F. Alegado from Jose F. Rodriguez School of Technology and Entrepreneurship, Inc. served as the facilitator.
Ms. Elsa F. Victoria, ATI-CL, Chief of Career Development and Management Section (CDMS); Ms. Babelyn P. Lopez, ATI-CL, Training Specialist II; and Mr. Geowell Raymund M. Gutierrez from OPA-Zambales served as resource persons, enriching the training with their expertise.
The participants expressed appreciation for the comprehensive learning experience and expressed eagerness to apply their newfound knowledge and implement the techniques that can be shared within their communities.
One participant shared, "Marami kaming natutunan sa training na ito. Ngayon mas nadagdagan ang kaalaman namin kung paano gamitin ang mga bagay na mayroon sa paligid namin upang magtanim ng hindi nasisira ang lupa.β
Furthermore, during the three-day training, the participants engaged in a series of hands-on workshops and lectures covering a range of topics, including organic farming techniques, soil health management, crop diversification, and the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides.
The training was designed to be interactive and culturally sensitive, ensuring that the knowledge imparted was relevant and easily adaptable to the participants' traditional farming practices.
At the end of the training, the participants were provided with agricultural tools, including a pick-up mattock, shovel, and various seeds, to support their efforts in applying the sustainable farming techniques they had learned.
Moreover, the training concluded with a commitment from the participants to implement and advocate for sustainable farming practices within their communities.
ATI-CL plans to continue supporting these initiatives through follow-up sessions and ongoing assistance to ensure long-term success.
Written by:Β KIEZHA ANNE DAPROZA
