BAYBAY City, Leyte - Aligned with the RCEF-RESP Project 1, ATI, the lead agency in the extension component, continues to conduct Regional Training of Trainers (TOT) programs. These programs target the four RCEF priority provinces of Region VIII: Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Biliran. In this sixth year of RCEF implementation, ATI focuses on enhancing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of participants, enabling them to effectively impart the latest modern rice-based production technologies. This is achieved through the implementation of a Modified Season-long Farmer Field School (FFS) in their respective farm schools, thereby building economically resilient rice communities capable of withstanding sudden or extreme price fluctuations.
The "Training of Trainers on Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds, and Farm Mechanization (Batch 1)" was held on May 6-17 2024, at ATI-RTC 8, VSU Campus, Visca, Baybay City, Leyte. As part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund-Rice Extension Services Program (RCEF-RESP), the training aimed to boost the capability of rice fund beneficiaries by imparting modernized inbred rice and seed production techniques along with other relevant skills to enhance competitiveness and income.
With the goal of equipping its participants to become effective trainers, facilitators, and resource persons capable of conducting Modified Season-Long Farmer Field Schools on the production of high-quality inbred rice, seeds, and farm mechanization, the training discussed on the updates of the Philippine Rice Industry and the importance and implications of RA 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law for rice farmers. Major topics on how to conduct FFS and the use of the nine Key Checks were also among the discussions tackled during the training.
Participants appreciated the significance of adhering to the Palay Check system and its nine key checks in rice production. They also realized the importance of Agro-ecosystem Analysis (AESA) as a decision-making tool, which aids farmers in making more practical and economically sound decisions. Additionally, they learned that not all insects in the rice field are pests and recognized the importance of conserving beneficial organisms. Furthermore, participants familiarized themselves with and operated various rice machinery, such as the riding-type rice transplanter, 4-wheel drive tractor, reaper, combine harvester, and mechanical seeder. They appreciated these machineries' potential benefits for farm operations. They also explored different methods of seedling preparation using seedling trays and double mulching techniques. ICT tools, including the RCMAS, MOET App, Binhing Palay App, and Palay Check App, were introduced, showcasing their utility in rice production.
As the President of the Matando Irrigators Association, Inc. in Hindang, Leyte, Mr. Jecu Mabale said that this training was highly beneficial for rice farmers. Despite having prior knowledge about rice through his stint as Local Farmer Technician (LFT), he still found the training to be very relevant and informative. “After this training, my goal is to impart this knowledge to all my association members, especially the concept of IPM. And to apply the learning I gained from this training to my own farm so that I could be a model to other farmers in our community.” Mr. Mabale added.
With twenty-nine (29) farmers and trainers from various municipalities in region 8, the training highlights ATI's commitment to enhancing the agricultural skills and knowledge of farmers, ensuring a competitive and resilient rice industry in the Philippines.
