NAGCARLAN, Laguna – During the 10-day Training of Trainers on the Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds, and Farm Mechanization, 32 participants underwent intensive lectures and hands-on exercises aimed at strengthening their skills in modern rice production technologies and in implementing the Farmer Field School (FFS) framework.
DA-Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON, through the Partnerships and Accreditation Section (PAS), conducted the said training from August 21 to 30, 2024, at Gintong Bukid Farm and Leisure -- a certified Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) in Brgy. Buboy, Nagcarlan, Laguna.
The participants who completed the training came from Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) priority provinces in the region, specifically Cavite, Laguna, and Quezon.
During the opening ceremony, Sen. Cynthia A. Villar, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, shared a keynote message, emphasizing the importance of improving rice production to meet the country’s demands in an increasingly competitive rice market.
Mr. Ruben Perlas from the Agricultural Program Coordinating Office (APCO) - Cavite, Mr. Ferdinand Aguilar from DA-PhilRice Los Baños, and Engr. Niño Bengosta from DA-PHilMech also graced the activity.
Participants engaged in practical activities that enhanced their understanding of modern rice farming, including the operation of farm machinery for land preparation and crop establishment, Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AESA), and seed testing methods, particularly seed purity and moisture content determination.
They also presented for the microteaching sessions on the PalayCheck System and other related topics, enhancing their presentation and teaching skills in preparation for their roles as future FFS trainers.
The closing program was marked by a message from Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, DA-ATI CALABARZON Center Director, delivered via video. Key personnel like Ms. Ma. Annie S. Bucu, APCO Laguna, and Ms. Imelda DG. Olvida from DA-PhilRice Los Baños were also in attendance to show their support.
The training concluded with participants submitting individual plans that detailed how they intended to apply the knowledge gained and integrate it into their work back in their respective localities.
This intensive training not only equipped the participants with the technical know-how for enhancing rice productivity but also empowered them to take leadership roles as resource persons or trainers, particularly in conducting FFS under the RCEF program.
News by: Darren Bayna
