Siquijor, Philippines – A productive two-day workshop aimed at strengthening agricultural and fishery extension services in Siquijor was conducted at Dapdap Sunset Grill, Siquijor, on February 4-5, 2025. The event, titled "Collaborate to Elevate: A Harmonization Session and Operational Planning Workshops for Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Extension Centers (PAFEC)," brought together 40 participants from various partner agencies to discuss and develop operational plans for the upcoming fiscal year.

The primary objectives of the workshop were to establish a comprehensive operational plan for agri-fishery extension activities in the province for FY 2025 and to identify key convergence programs and projects to improve sector collaboration.

Ms. Merigine C. Otara, Planning Officer II from the Agricultural Training Institute-Region VII (ATI-7), led the session, with Ms. Lurlyn Caga providing technical support. Throughout the sessions, participants brainstormed and agreed on several crucial strategies to enhance the efficiency of agricultural and fishery services in Siquijor.

Among the key agreements made during the workshop were the creation of an annual calendar of activities to be integrated into a shared Google calendar for better coordination, as well as seeking approval from the provincial governor for the smooth execution of proposed programs and projects. Participants also discussed the importance of encouraging agencies to visit the Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Extension (PAFE) Center for any immediate concerns in the agri-fishery sector. Additionally, the group agreed on conducting quarterly convergence meetings to foster further collaboration and providing orientations on the Commodity Information System.

The event was hailed as an important step towards improving agricultural and fishery services in the province, providing a platform for agencies to collaborate effectively and plan ahead for the betterment of the local sector.