
Participants visit Deloverges Agri-Farm in Bula, Camarines Sur, as part of their training on malunggay and taro leaves production.
PILI, Camarines Sur- The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center V (ATI Bicol) conducted a three-day Training on Malunggay and Taro Leaves Production from April 28 to 30, 2025, at Isarog Hall, ATI-RTC V, San Agustin, Pili, Camarines Sur. The training aimed to promote the productivity and sustainability of malunggay and taro in support of the PAITAAS: Top 555 Project and in partnership with the Bicol Learning Sites for Agriculture (BLSA, Inc.).
A total of 30 participants—20 Agricultural Extension Workers and 10 farmer-leaders—took part in the training. Dr. Emmanuel L. Orogo, Assistant Center Director of ATI Bicol, welcomed the participants, while Mr. John Kenneth M. Gelario, Agriculturist I, presented the training overview.
Ms. Maricris C. Reforba, Agriculturist II from DA-RFO V, led the session on Malunggay and Taro Leaves Production and shared marketing strategies for malunggay. Mr. Leo M. Beltran, Science Research Specialist II of DA-RFO V, provided a detailed lecture on malunggay production. Mr. Michale D. Villezar, Information Officer II of ATI Bicol, introduced the participants to climate change concepts and their relevance to crop farming.
On the second day, the group visited Deloverges Agri-Farm in Bula, Camarines Sur, where LSA Cooperator and Farm Owner Ms. Raquel Deloverges shared her experience in taro production and marketing. Participants also visited the malunggay plantation at the Albay Provincial Agricultural Office.
The final day featured a discussion on Gender and Development Concepts led by Ms. Charlene O. Freeman, Technical Staff of PAFES. The training concluded with the submission of 21 re-entry plans, a post-test, and distribution of certificates. Participants expressed enthusiasm for applying their new knowledge in their communities and rated the training as highly relevant and practical.