Four promising young farmers from CALABARZON are set to broaden their horizons as they embark on an 11-month internship in Israel under the Philippine-Israel Internship Program for the Youth—a joint initiative of the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and Israel’s AgroStudies international training center and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
These CALABARZON delegates are Ma. Norilyn Miras, Dailyn Ayes, and Karlo Pujalte from Infanta, Quezon; and Aldwin Jeus Diolola from Siniloan, Laguna. Meanwhile, Jerald Mangaya from Pangil, Laguna, is also preparing to join soon to complete the CALABARZON delegation.
The program aims to equip young Filipino farmers with advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in agricultural extension systems, national agricultural programs, innovations, and best farming practices in Israel.
Prior to their departure, they underwent a series of pre-departure activities designed to ensure their holistic readiness for the international learning experience. These included an orientation and briefing on Israeli culture and traditions, which introduced them to the social norms, religious practices, and customs of their host country.
They also attended a lecture on business enterprise plan development, aimed at nurturing their entrepreneurial mindset. The session guided participants in developing viable business plans, helping them translate their upcoming practical training into real-world agricultural enterprises when they return home.
Acknowledging the emotional challenges of living overseas for 11 months, the participants likewise took part in a training on mental health and resiliency that focused on self-care, coping mechanisms, and strategies for maintaining mental well-being throughout their stay.
38 interns from the country have already been deployed, while 12 other interns are still waiting for their deployment.
For Ma. Norilyn Miras, one of the interns, the experience represents both an opportunity and a responsibility.
“I expect the AgroStudies Internship Program to give me a strong combination of practical experience, professional knowledge, and personal growth,” she shared. “I want to learn modern and sustainable farming methods that I can apply when I return, helping develop modern and resilient agriculture in our country.”
Through the Agrostudies Internship Program, these CALABARZON delegates are expected not only to gain new skills and knowledge but also to become catalysts of agricultural transformation in their communities by bringing innovation, leadership, and a renewed passion for farming that can inspire other Filipino youth to pursue a future in agriculture.
News by: Archie C. Linsasagin (Information Officer II / ISS) & Ric Jason T. Arreza (Development Management Officer II/ CDMS)
