Region 7 AEWs Complete Training of Trainers on Inbred Rice Seed Production and Farm Mechanization
PILAR, BOHOL — Ten (10) Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from four provinces in Central Visayas completed the Training of Trainers (TOT) on the Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice Seeds and Farm Mechanization held from March 3 to 14, 2025 at Labonite Integrated Farm in San Isidro, Pilar, this town.
The training was designed to equip participants with technical knowledge and practical skills to conduct season-long Farmer Field Schools (FFS) on high-quality inbred rice seed production, with emphasis on PalayCheck System principles, RCEF (Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund) advocacy, training management, and basic financial management.
The program's objective was for the participants to effectively demonstrate the modified season-long FFS model, enabling them to serve as trainers and resource persons in their respective communities.
As part of their re-entry plans, the ten graduates committed to conduct ten batches of Farmer Field Schools in their areas, with institutional support from the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VII (ATI-RTC 7). They also agreed to assist their offices in establishing rice-based learning sites and to actively share their newly gained knowledge with farmers across their municipalities and neighboring communities.
Michelle Jean L. Novero, an Agricultural Extension Worker (AEW ) from Alcantara, Cebu, described the training as a transformative experience.
“The training was insightful and well-structured, providing valuable knowledge I can apply and share with farmers. The sessions were engaging, and the content was relevant to real-world situations. I appreciated the interactive activities and the chance to learn from both trainers and fellow participants,” she said.
The initiative is part of ATI-RTC 7's continuing efforts to strengthen the extension delivery system and support rice farmers' productivity through improved seed quality and mechanized practices.
