The participants try their hand at pruning as part of their training.

MASBATE CITY, Masbate – The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center V (ATI-RTC V) recently conducted a Regional Training of Trainers (TOT) on Coconut-Cacao Nursery Establishment at Masbate City, Masbate from July 23-25, 2024. This initiative is part of ATI's mission to enhance the capacity of farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector, particularly in coconut and cacao production.

The training featured several resource persons who provided in-depth lectures and hands-on demonstrations. Mr. Alvin M. Fortes, Acting Division Chief I of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Provincial Office, discussed the current state of the coconut industry and the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan. Ms. Naneth G. Ramos, a graduate of the previous TOT, focused on the cacao industry, stressing the importance of meeting market demand through quality production. Mr. Audrey G. Opeña, who led discussions on Coconut Production and Management and Cacao Nursery Establishment, also demonstrated grafting techniques.

Participants further enhanced their learning through a field activity at Darwel Agricultural Farm in Batuhan, Masbate. They practiced essential nursery techniques such as pruning and side grafting under the guidance of Mr. Darlon R. Amante, along with Mr. Opeña and Ms. Ramos. This practical experience was designed to reinforce the knowledge gained during the classroom sessions.

The training concluded with participants creating re-entry plans for their respective barangays and associations, ensuring the knowledge acquired would be applied within their communities. The closing ceremony featured reflections from the participants and remarks from Mr. Edgardo C. Nacario, the CFIDP Focal Person, and a closing message from the Senior Agriculturist of the PCA Masbate Provincial Office, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration to strengthen the region’s agricultural sector.