The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA, spearheaded by Center Director Pat Andrew B. Barrientos, launched two Farmers' Information and Technology Services (FITS) Kiosks in Palawan to enhance access to valuable technology and information resources for farmers and fisherfolk in the locality. The launch took place at Javenri Harvest Farm in Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Puerto Princesa City, on June 13, 2024, and at Palengke sa Bukid in Brgy. Tumardong, Roxas, on June 14, 2024.
Mr. Bryan John S. Dizon, the Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) cooperator at Javenri Harvest Farm, welcomed the participants and guests. He mentioned that the FITS Kiosk will provide farmers, fishers, and youth visiting the farm with essential knowledge and information to enhance their productivity.
“Through the internet connection and ICT equipment here at the FITS Kiosk, they can conduct research, and our IEC materials are available for free, na mapagkukunan nila ng mahalagang impormasyon tungkol sa agriculture and fisheries” he added.
Mr. Cesar Z. Caabay, an LSA cooperator at Palengke sa Bukid, also expressed his gratitude to ATI for entrusting him with this notable project. He mentioned that everyone in their barangay would benefit from the services provided by the FITS Kiosk.
Meanwhile, Director Barrientos highlighted the crucial role of the FITS Kiosk in disseminating technology related to agriculture and fisheries to a wider audience. He also urged farmer-leaders in Brgy. Sta. Cruz and Brgy. Tumarbong to support and utilize the services offered by the FITS Kiosk.
“Huwag tayong matakot sa teknolohiya. Kailangan natin itong gamitin para mas lalong mapaunlad ang ating pagsasaka,” he said.
Mr. Erlan D. Pasana, Information Officer II of ATI-MIMAROPA, also briefed the FITS Kiosks on Techno Gabay Program and its components, as well as their responsibilities as the newly established FITS Kiosks.
During the event, ATI-MIMAROPA turned over a check worth Php70,000.00 as catalytic funds to cover expenses for displaying IEC materials, accessing and promoting e-Extension services and other online agricultural tools, and documenting and developing technology-based information. Moreover, assorted IEC materials were provided to the FITS Kiosk.
Also present during the event were City Agriculturist Ms. Melissa U. Macasaet; Agricultural Technologist and representative of the Provincial Agriculture Office, Ms. Rosemarie C. Oliva; Agricultural Technologist and representative of the Municipal Agriculture Office in Roxas, Ms. Merlyn La Torre; the Board of Directors and members of the Nagsaguipi-Calatubog Farmers Marketing Cooperative; and representatives from Palawan News and the Philippine Information Agency.
As a satellite office of the FITS Center, Javenri Harvest Farm is the first FITS Kiosk in Puerto Princesa City, while Palengke sa Bukid is the third FITS Kiosk in Roxas.
