SWISA Officers, AEWs Undergo Training on Leadership and Irrigation Management in Bohol

TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — Small Water Irrigation System Association (SWISA) officers and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from various regions completed a seven-day Training of Trainers on Leadership and Technical Skills held from March 16 to 22, 2025 at Panda Tea Garden Suites in Dao District, Tagbilaran City.

The training aimed to enhance the capacity of SWISA officers and AEWs in managing Small-Scale Irrigation Projects (SSIPs), with a long-term goal of building a pool of skilled trainers and resource persons on irrigation system operations and maintenance.

Participants gained valuable insights on various topics, including the 2025 direction and strategies of the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP), the current Rice Industry Situationer, organizational development, leadership techniques, technical operation and maintenance of small water irrigation systems, Gender and Development (GAD) concepts, and environmental compliance requirements. A key outcome of the training was the development of practical re-entry plans by participants for implementation in their respective areas.

One of the highlights of the training was the emphasis on cascading knowledge. Graduates of the program are expected to share their learnings with their local organizations and fellow members, particularly on leadership strategies and irrigation system management.

Daryl Joy O. Flores from the Department of Agriculture - Negros Island Region (DA-NIR), Bacolod City, said, “The training was well-structured with a good flow of information. The hands-on exercises and real-life examples allowed me to apply the concepts effectively. I now feel confident using these skills in my work. The materials were presented clearly and logically.”

The training concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to apply their new skills in the field and contribute to improving irrigation system efficiency and leadership in their communities.