To enhance farmers’ financial management skills for better handling of their farms and cooperatives, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA recently conducted a three-day Training on Financial Literacy for beneficiaries of the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) and Livestock Economic Enterprise Development (LEED) programs on March 3-5, 2026 in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.
Resource persons from the ATI-MIMAROPA led the sessions, including April Christine F. Robea, Accountant I, and John Edbert S. Alcobera, Administrative Officer II.
The first day focused on introducing the concept of financial literacy. Topics covered included basic accounting, budgeting, the business cycle, and essential business competencies. Participants engaged in a workshop to create a household budget, presenting outputs that highlighted practical financial planning by prioritizing needs over wants.
Filipino values related to financial literacy were also discussed. The session became interactive, as both the resource persons and participants shared personal experiences, making the lessons more relatable and applicable to everyday life.
The second day emphasized financial recording, starting with record-keeping and basic accounting concepts. Participants actively contributed examples during discussions, enhancing the learning experience. Practical exercises allowed participants to apply the knowledge gained, followed by a group workshop to showcase their understanding.
On the final day, participants learned how to prepare basic financial statements for their cooperatives. The session remained interactive, with participants sharing insights and experiences from their respective organizations. Moreover, an important discussion focused on the proper recording of financial grants from the Department of Agriculture.
Mr. Nico C. Alcaraz, a member of the United As One Agriculture Cooperative, shared that he had learned how to manage money, spend it wisely, and build savings. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the speakers.
“Napakahalaga rin po ng recording para sa akin, dahil noong ako po ay naging treasurer dati, talagang nalilito ako sa mga numero at kung saang account ilalagay ang pera. Ngayon, alam ko na kung saang account ito ilalagay. Dahil sa training na ito, magagamit na talaga namin ang mga natutunan namin sa aming kooperatiba,” he added.
A total of 21 participants attended the training, leaving them better equipped to manage cooperative resources responsibly and support the growth of their communities.
