Participants witness the basic operation of farm machinery.

PILI, Camarines Sur- Twenty-six machine operators and machinery in charge from eight Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) participated in the Training on Rice Machinery Operation, Repair, and Maintenance for Rice Clusters held on March 3-7, 2025, in Camarines Sur. This program, spearheaded by the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center V (ATI Bicol), aimed to equip FCA members with the skills to maximize the use of agricultural machinery, ultimately reducing production costs and increasing farmers’ incomes.

The training catered to FCA beneficiaries identified through their Cluster Development Plans, which highlighted their need for knowledge in machinery operation, repair, and maintenance. The eight FCAs were distributed as follows: one from Albay, one from Camarines Norte, and six from Camarines Sur.

In her opening remarks, ATI Bicol Center Director Elsa A. Parot emphasized the importance of the Department of Agriculture's mechanization program. "The government’s significant investment in farm machinery requires that we know how to maintain and repair this equipment to maximize its usefulness. Mechanization plays a key role in lowering production costs and increasing profitability for our farmers," she stated.

The training began with a pre-test and expectation-setting using the Mentimeter app, followed by technical discussions. Engr. Kristine Sandra B. Barcebal, Science Research Specialist I of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), provided an overview of agricultural mechanization in the Philippines. Engr. Herbert C. Villaseñor Jr. from DA-Regional Field Office 5 gave updates on the regional mechanization program.

Engr. Menandro U. Calingacion, Engineer I from the Naga City Agriculture Office, led the technical sessions. He covered the operation and upkeep of various rice production equipment, including tractors, transplanters, combine harvesters, mechanical dryers, and rice mills.

A two-day field visit and practicum were held at the Cam, Sur Multi-Purpose Cooperative Rice Processing Center in Minalabac, Camarines Sur and the LGU-Naga City Agriculture Nursery in Carolina, Naga City. During these sessions, participants gained hands-on experience operating machinery and applying maintenance techniques under the guidance of Mr. Jonel A. Jesalva and Engr. Calingacion.

The training concluded with a closing ceremony, where participants expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights and skills they acquired.