ATI Bicol Center Director Elsa A. Parot (seated, fifth from the left) joins the participants, resource person, and the Training Management Team in a group photo.

PILI, Camarines Sur- The Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) Bicol's High-Value Crops Development Program conducted a five-day Training of Trainers (TOT) on Pili Nursery Establishment and Accreditation from March 10–14, 2025, at Isarog Hall, ATI-RTC V, San Agustin, Pili, Camarines Sur. This initiative aimed to equip Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and Farmer Leaders with the skills to produce and distribute high-quality, pest-resistant Pili plant materials. ATI Bicol Center Director Elsa A. Parot delivered inspiring opening remarks, emphasizing Pili's potential as a high-value commodity and expressing her hope for the region to sustain its competitive edge in Pili production.

The training began with foundational sessions on Pili production, including climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies presented by Isagani C. Valenzuela, Jr., and an overview of the Pili industry by Ms. Maricris C. Reforba of DA-RFO5. The participants also learned advanced Pili production techniques from Mr. Ronaldo Coprada, covering best cultivation practices to maximize yield and quality.

On the second and third days, the focus shifted to nursery management and practical skills development. Ms. Editha L. Pelin, a PhilGAP Inspector and nursery expert, shared best practices in nursery operations, while Mr. Jose P. Tormes of BPI-NSQCS presented the accreditation guidelines under Department Circular No. 01, S2020. A hands-on practicum led by Ms. Pelin allowed participants to refine their skills in asexual plant propagation techniques, such as grafting and budding, ensuring participants gained practical expertise in Pili cultivation.

The fourth day featured field exposure visits to Naga View College nursery and the Naga City Agriculture Office nursery. These site visits provided participants with real-world insights into nursery management and validation techniques, further enriching their learning experience. The day concluded with presentations of learning journals, where participants reflected on their observations and shared valuable insights.

The training concluded with sessions on marketing strategies for Pili products, facilitated by Mr. Ronaldo Coprada, and a discussion on Gender and Development (GAD) concepts led by Ms. Maristella T. Santiago. During the closing ceremony, ATI Bicol Assistant Center Director Dr. Emmanuel L. Orogo confirmed 31 participants as graduates and awarded certificates. He challenged them to apply their learning to enhance Pili production in their respective communities, marking the program as a step forward in strengthening the region’s Pili industry.