BANGA, Aklan – The ATI Training Hall fills with youths and young at heart during the celebration of the 38th Founding Anniversary of ATI Region 6 on February 6.
This year’s anniversary theme was “Youth in Agriculture,” focusing on younger generations and the agriculture sector. It aims to empower, support, and equip young people amidst the rapid advancement of the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
In her opening message, Ms. Mary Ann Ramos, Center Director, praised everyone’s contribution to the continuous success of ATI Region 6.
She highlighted that the changes in terms of technologies, the climate, and other unforeseen challenges are not hindrances to the Center’s constant success but a stepping stone towards progress.
Mr. Mauro Somodio, Pioneer Agricultural Training Program in the United States and founding President of the Filipino-Australian Foundation of Qld, Inc., the guest speaker of the said event, narrated how his life changed just by being curious about agriculture.
He shared that he dreamed of learning agriculture. Unfortunately, he is not privileged with those opportunities, but his perseverance and determination made him find his way overseas, which helped him achieve his goals.
From left to right: CD Mary Ann Ramos, Mr. Mauro Somodio, Pioneer Agricultural Training Program in the United States and founding President of the Filipino-Australian Foundation of Qld, Inc., and Mr. Vianney T. Ojerio, OIC- Assistant Center Director, posed for a photo opportunity after his motivational message.
Additionally, as part of the celebration, the introduction and presentation of existing, ongoing, and future initiatives and directives of ATI Region 6 was presented as a pathway for everyone’s knowing.
One of the highlights of this activity was the awarding of the loyal employees. The service awardees were as follows: Ms. Eraldgen N. Bernaldo, Training Specialist III, Mr. Wilmer T. Rentino, Administrative Assistant II, and Mr. Ben Joel B. Torres, Administrative Aide II. This ceremony recognizes and appreciates them and their hard work.
Meanwhile, to acknowledge the efforts of the ATI Region 6’s scholars, a medal, plaque, and certificates were given during the during the awarding ceremony for EasY Agri Program Graduates, EasY Agri Program Board Passers, and EasY Agri Program (Batch 2 and 3) Academic Performers.
ATI Region 6, as the capacity builder, awards the grantees of different internship programs with their respective funds, such as the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan, with P50,000, followed by the Youth Internship Program on Organic Agriculture Batch II, the Youth Internship Program for the Corn Young Farmers (Batch 1) and LSA Grants/Financial Assistance with an amount of P150,000 each grantee for both programs.
ATI Region 6 head and personnel, together with the guests and participants, during the ceremonial toast and cutting of the cake
The main event of the activity was the ceremonial toast and cutting of the cake led by CD Ramos, Mr. Vianney T. Ojerio, OIC-Assistant Center Director, guests, and ATI Region 6 personnel. This activity symbolizes the reaping of the success of the Center over the past years.
Dr. Jeffrey Clarin, ASU President, expresses his message of support during ATI Region 6's 38th Anniversary Celebration.
In his message, the President of Aklan State University (ASU), Dr. Jeffrey Clarin, also expressed his full support and assured assistance with ATI Region 6 as a partner with their extension programs. He mentioned further that the said partnership would benefit all Filipinos.
The one-day activity ended with Mr. Ojerio, OIC- Assistant Center Director’s words, “ATI has been more than an institution; it has been a home, a mentor, and a catalyst for growth.”
ATI Region 6 officials with the scholars and interns during the celebration of the 38th Founding Anniversary posed after the awarding ceremony.
