Smart Farming in Focus: ATI Trains Future Trainers on Greenhouse Production

In the face of growing challenges such as climate change, resource limitations, and labor shortages, the Philippine agricultural sector is gradually transforming through smart farming.

Smart farming, also known as precision agriculture, utilizes modern technologies to enhance agricultural practices' efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Unlike traditional open-field farming, it mitigates the effects of climate change, optimizes resource use, and improves both crop yield and quality. These benefits make smart farming crucial for addressing food security and improving farmers’ livelihoods, particularly in developing countries like the Philippines. This innovative approach is playing an increasingly vital role in modernizing Philippine agriculture and ensuring food security.

However, the adoption of these technologies remains limited due to factors such as limited access, lack of awareness, and resistance to change. To address this, under the leadership of Center Director Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, the Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) CALABARZON, in partnership with Bukid Amara (a Learning Site for Agriculture in Lucban, Quezon), developed a module on Smart Farming for Greenhouse Production. This module was used during the conduct of Training of Trainers (ToT) on Smart Farming for Greenhouse Production of Fruit Crops and Leafy Vegetables from February 27 to April 12, 2025.

This initiative aimed to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and skills on crop-specific cultivation practices, plant nutrition management, irrigation controls, greenhouse farming systems, automation, pest and disease management, and mitigation strategies for fruit crops and leafy vegetables. The ToT used a hybrid learning approach, combining online discussions with on-site sessions at Bukid Amara, which is known for its innovative smart farming practices in CALABARZON. Ultimately, this program supports the modernization of Philippine agriculture and empowers farmers to adopt sustainable, technology-driven practices.

Sixteen (16) participants, including ATI staff from various Regional Training Centers and LSA partners specializing in High-value Crops, took part in the hands-on training, marking a significant advancement in precision agriculture and sustainable farming in the country.

At Bukid Amara, participants learned how to design greenhouse layouts, calculate plant nutrition needs, and manage pest and disease control. They also gained skills in key cultural practices such as pruning, vine training, and hand pollination—essential techniques for successful greenhouse farming.

The training culminated in the development of master plans for smart greenhouse setups tailored to participants’ specific targets. These plans are expected to serve as models for expanding precision agriculture across ATI centers and affiliated farms, helping more Filipino farmers embrace technology to enhance productivity.

In his message, Dr. Rolando V. Maningas commended the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm: “This training of trainers is about more than just technical skills; it’s about fostering a mindset of innovation, resilience, and leadership. You are now stewards of smart agriculture, and the knowledge you’ve gained here will help bring real change to your communities.”

He emphasized the participants’ critical role in modernizing Philippine agriculture, particularly in bridging the gap between traditional farming practices and technology-driven solutions. He ended his message with the quote: “Let this be the start of a greater mission to empower our farmers, uplift our rural communities, and build a future where agriculture is both sustainable and smart.”

As the agricultural sector faces challenges such as climate change and rising food demand, the success of this training highlights the importance of knowledge-sharing, innovation, and collaboration in shaping the future of farming in the Philippines.

The ToT marked a pivotal step toward advancing precision agriculture in the Philippines. By equipping ATI staff and LSA partners with hands-on experience and technical expertise, the initiative not only strengthened participants' capacities but also set the stage for the widespread adoption of innovative and sustainable agricultural practices across the country.

As these new trainers return to their regions, the training’s ripple effect will help empower farmers to adopt technology-driven solutions and foster a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.