The three-day training on “Basic Crop-Based Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture with a Focus on Soilless Technology,” conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MMAROPA through its Information Services Section on May 11–13, 2026 in Calapan City, equipped 29 agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and farmer leaders from different municipalities in Oriental Mindoro with practical knowledge and skills in soilless crop production systems.
In his opening message, ATI-MIMAROPA Center Director Pat Andrew B. Barrientos encouraged participants to fully engage in the training, emphasizing its timeliness and importance to food security and sustainable food production.
“Hindi natin kailangan ng lupa para makapagtanim at makapag-produce ng pagkain. Maaari nating gamitin ang ating bakuran para makapagtanim, at mayroon tayong hydroponics technology na puwedeng gamitin para makapagtanim ng gulay,” he said.
On the first day, participants learned the fundamentals of urban and peri-urban agriculture through a lecture delivered by Ms. Diana Faye T. Duran, Technical Support Staff from ATI-MIMAROPA. The discussion highlighted modern urban farming technologies and their application in maximizing small or limited spaces for food production.
The second day focused on hydroponic systems, including pest and disease management and climate change adaptation strategies. The session was facilitated by Ms. Jessica D. Rey, Assistant Professor from the Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, helping participants gain a better overall understanding of sustainable farming systems.
The third day was dedicated to hands-on learning, where Ms. Rey demonstrated Kratky hydroponics using a styrofoam box setup. Participants were guided step by step in seed sowing, seedling transplantation, and system maintenance.
Following the practical activity, participants shared their insights and learnings on the importance of proper nutrient management, careful monitoring of water levels, and the advantages of low-cost soilless farming systems in maximizing limited space.
“Lubos po akong nagpapasalamat sa ating resource person sa pagbabahagi ng kanyang malawak na kaalaman at karanasan tungkol sa hydroponics. Dahil dito, mas lumawak ang aking kaalaman at mas nakita ko ang malaking potensyal ng hydroponics sa ating lugar. Umaasa po ako na magagamit at maia-apply namin ang aming natutunan, at mapapalalim pa ito sa pamamagitan ng patuloy na pag-aaral, online resources, at pagbisita sa mga hydroponic farms para sa aktuwal na aplikasyon,” shared Ma. Cristina D. Tolentino, Agriculturist II, City Agricultural Services Department (CASD).
In support, CASD Officer-in-Charge Ms. Pamela E. Rago expressed gratitude to the ATI-MIMAROPA for its valuable training and continued partnership in strengthening local agriculture, which empowers extension workers and farmers with climate-resilient technologies at the community level.
