To further capacitate the graduates of the Digital Farmers Program (DFP) Farm Learn Phase I, composed of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmers on Smart Agriculture Technologies (SATs), the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA conducted another three-day training on DFP Farm Learn Phase II.
Unlike DFP Farm Learn Phase I (DFP 101 and DFP 102), which introduced the basics of technology, DFP Farm Learn Phase II (DFP 103) focused on the significance and advantages of SATs and their application throughout the farming process. The DFP 103 for rice intended to create future-ready rice farmers by introducing SATs.
The training covered various web and mobile applications, including Binhing Palay App, e-Damuhan, Palay Check System, Leaf Color Computing App, PRIME, RCMAS, and drone technology. Participants appreciated the hands-on activities, during which resource persons guided them through downloading and navigating these applications. Moreover, they understood how RA 10848 (ACEF Extension Act) and ERCA-RCEF could support them by offering loans to farmers, fishermen, cooperatives, associations, and micro and small enterprises, ultimately improving their production.
In addition, the participants valued the roadmap workshop, which helped them understand the steps to take, when to take them, and other details relevant to their farm's improvement or goals. Since most participants had never seen or operated a drone before, they were thrilled to learn how to use it and understand its applications.
Ms. Cynthia P. Zamora of Regal Peak Farm in Brgy. Bacungan, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan expressed her gratitude for the conduct of the training. She said that what she liked the most were the e-Damuhan and Binhing Palay Apps because she believed it would help her farm.
"Maraming salamat po sa ATI dahil nadagdagan ang aking kaalaman tungkol sa Smart Agriculture Technologies. Masaya din ako na natutunan ko ang paggamit ng drone sa unang pagkakataon. Ang akala ko madami na akong alam, pero hindi pala, madami pa akong hindi alam na ngayon ko lang nalalaman dito sa DFP lalo na sa pagpapalayan na pwede kong ituro sa aking mga staff sa farm”, she added.
A total of 33 participants composed of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmers attended the said training on August 7-9, 2024 at the Ala Amid Bed and Breakfast in Brgy. San Manuel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
