Aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of farmers and Local Government Unit (LGU) staff in soybean production and post-harvest management, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA spearheaded the “Training on Soybean Production and Post-Harvest Management," held on August 27-29, 2024, at Dosfourdos Integrated Farm, Brgy. Ramon Magsaysay, Aborlan, Palawan.
The three-day province-wide training included lectures and discussions on the status of soybean industry in the Philippines, the site selection process for soybean production , the cultural management of soybean, insect pest and disease management, and differentiating harvesting and post-harvest technologies. There were also hands-on activities and workshops to facilitate the effective transfer of knowledge to the participants. Moreover, the participants engaged in a cost and return analysis in which they were given a sample scenario based on their actual farm inputs, using the same farm gate price, and presented with their output.
One of the highlights of the training was the hands-on session, where the participants created soy milk and soy meatballs from soy pulp (OKARA). These products were then given as take-home souvenirs for the participants.
According to Mr. Rolet E. Suanque from the Office of the Municipal Agriculture, Sofronio Española, Palawan, “Ang ganda nung roadmap. Nakikita kong malaki ang potential nitong soybean, siguro magandang magkaroon pa ng Training of Trainers para ‘yung mga technician ay magkaroon ng mas malalim na understanding dito sa soybean.”
A total of 35 farmers and LGU staff participated in the said training.
