ALCANTARA, ROMBLON – The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA successfully conducted two batches of the Refresher Course for the Farmers-Scientist Training Program (FSTP) Phase III on February 25-27, 2025, and March 4-6, 2025 at Blue Pebbles Beach Resort, Alcantara, Romblon. The first batch had 18 participants from Sta. Maria, while the second batch had 21 participants from Alcantara, including agricultural extension workers and farmers.
The training consisted of lecture discussions, hands-on activities, and workshops designed to ensure the effective transfer of knowledge to participants, who were divided into four groups for small group discussions covering all topics in the FSTP module.
Speakers from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) provided insights into key factors to consider in microteaching, equipping participants for their instructional roles in FSTP Phase III. A microteaching session was also conducted, during which participants presented their assigned topics and integrated personal experiences.
The FSTP-UPLB team, led by Ms. Carla O. Melodillar, along with Engr. Ramel L. Fabon, Municipal Agriculturist of Alcantara, provided valuable recommendations for improvement. Moreover, a planning session was conducted to finalize crucial details for the next phase, including the target site, schedule, and participant selection.
As part of the agreement, all graduates of the refresher course for FSTP Phase III will serve as resource persons for their assigned topics and act as facilitators for 30 farmers in the community who have not yet been trained.
“Sa totoo lang, marami akong natutunan sa tatlong araw ng pag-aaral at refresher tungkol sa mga natalakay noong Phase I at Phase II. Ngayon ko lang din na-liwanagan ang tungkol sa pag-compute ng abono, kung ilang kilo o sako ang kailangan ilagay sa ating lupang tataniman. Salamat po, Sir Bernard, kasi malaking tulong po ito sa akin dahil hindi lang po mais ang tinatanim ko; nagtatanim din po ako ng gulay,” shared Mr. Romeo S. Escalante, Farmer.
Facilitated by Mr. Joel Ryan R. Pagdato, Corn Focal Person, with assistance from Ms. Princess Ann A. De Torres, Training Support Staff II, the three-day training served as preparation for the graduates of FSTP Phase I and II for Phase III, aiming to further enhance their skills and refresh their knowledge on the necessary tasks and lessons they would need to impart to farmers.
