WESTERN Visayas—ATI Region 6 concluded a transformative training designed to enhance the skills of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in crafting impactful project proposals. The program, titled "Training with Impact: Project Proposal Writeshop for Agricultural Extension Workers towards Development of Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries Interventions," was held in two batches in Aklan and Iloilo, with 45 participants in total.
The training was designed to equip AEWs with the necessary skills to develop effective and sustainable project proposals that will drive the growth of the agriculture and fisheries sectors in their respective communities. With a strong emphasis on practical application, the write-shop provided hands-on experience, enabling participants to immediately apply what they learned in addressing real-world scenarios.
The first batch was held from July 16-19, 2024, at the ATI Training Hall. Twenty-two (22) AEWs engaged in intensive sessions focusing on key aspects of proposal writing, including problem identification, solution development, and resource mobilization.
Batch 2, on the other hand, was conducted from July 23-26, 2024, at the TSKI Knowledge and Skills Institute, mirrored the structure of Batch 1, providing another 23 AEWs with the same learning experience.
Outstanding Project Proposals were also recognized during the Closing Program of the activities, with the following results:
BATCH 1
Best Project Proposals:
- “A Tree of Life for a New Life”
Proponent: Mr. Feelmer John Sasis of the Philippine Coconut Authority (Aklan)
- “AKLAN’S ABACA: Manggad it Mangunguma”
Proponent: Mr. Frances R. Arnaiz of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (Aklan)
- “ASAP OA 1K PROJECT: Agricultural Sustainability and Productivity for Organic Agriculture in a 1000 sq.m. Project
Proponent: Mr. Japsy C. Alviar of the City Government of Passi
Most Innovative Projects:
- “From Pork to Pinchers: Harvesting Sustainability One Claw at a Time!”
Proponent: M. Joanne O. Brunio and Mr. John Vincent G. Francisco of the Local Government Unit of Kalibo
- “ELEVATE Oyster: Establishment of Export-Quality Oyster Through Innovative Strategies in Production, Post-harvest and Marketing”
Proponent: Mr. Christian G. Nabayra of the Local Government Unit of New Washington
Best Project Title:
- “A Tree of Life for a New Life”
Proponent: Mr. Feelmer John Sasis of the Philippine Coconut Authority (Aklan)
Best Presenter:
- “AKLAN’S ABACA: Manggad it Mangunguma”
Proponent: Mr. Frances R. Arnaiz of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (Aklan)
BATCH 2
Best Project Proposals:
- “#MeatMina”
Proponent: Mr. Chris Mar A. Balbuena
- “Ramo Mo, Panginpuslan Ko! (Corn Silage Production)”
Proponents: Ms. Vanissa Mae C. Ebron and Ms. Niña Shen P. Baguios of the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (Pototan)
- “FARMSTEP: Farmers’ Sustainable Technology in Every Passinhons”
Proponent: Ms. Norlie M. Villa of the City Government of Passi
Most Innovative Projects:
- “CULTIVATING TOMORROW: Forest Restoration and Farm Innovation”
Proponent: Ms. Frances Febe M. Genova of the Local Government Unit of Sara
- “Community Vegetable Seed Banking Initiative”
Proponent: Ms. Ranale D. Briones and Mr. Jovert D. Pedregosa of the Local Government Unit of Dingle
Best Project Title:
- “Ramo Mo, Panginpuslan Ko! (Corn Silage Production)”
Proponents: Ms. Vanissa Mae C. Ebron and Ms. Niña Shen P. Baguios of the Local Government Unit of Pototan
Best Presenter:
- “FARMSTEP: Farmers’ Sustainable Technology in Every Passinhons”
Proponent: Ms. Norlie M. Villa of the City Government of Passi
Each batch consisted of 32 hours of rigorous training, blending theoretical insights with practical exercises, and data-driven solutions. The program was well-received, with participants expressing confidence in contributing more effectively to developing sustainable agriculture and fisheries interventions in their localities.
The success of this training underscores ATI's commitment to continuous capacity building among AEWs. This commitment ensures that AEWs are always well-equipped to address the evolving challenges in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, providing reassurance about their preparedness for future challenges. This initiative is expected to lead to the implementation of more impactful and sustainable projects, benefiting the broader community and environment.
