PALO, Leyte - In celebration of National Children's Month, National Rice Awareness Month, and Organic Agriculture Month, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VIII (ATI-RTC 8) launched the Rice and Organic Agriculture Awareness Reach Schools (ROARS) on November 14, 2024, at Cangumbang Elementary School, bringing an educational experience to fifty (50) students and teachers, recognizing the importance of rice self-sufficiency and organic farming.
The activity featured engaging activities, including interactive lectures, field demonstrations, school garden visits, quiz competitions, and “inteRICEtive” games. Mr. Christian Keruel Y. Laurente, Information Officer II of ATI-RTC 8, presented the "ABKD of BeRicePonsible," emphasizing the importance of reducing food waste and including rice mixes and vegetables in diets. Mr. Diosito Diaz, a farm trainer at Chandria Integrated Farm, also discussed organic agriculture and vegetable gardening highlighting its sustainable practices.
Students enthusiastically participated in the BeRicePonsible Pledge and competed in a quiz bee, showcasing their knowledge about rice and organic agriculture. The school also received garden tools, seeds, and other agricultural inputs to support its Gulayan sa Paaralan program.
“This is definitely a significant activity for our students and teachers,” said Mr. Warren Lugapo, a teacher at Cangumbang Elementary School. “We’ve learned sustainable agricultural practices that we can now apply to our school garden.”
Students shared their excitement about the activity. Mr. John Rey S. Layog II remarked, “I learned a lot, and the quiz bee was a highlight for me. I hope more children develop an interest in agriculture and become RicePonsible.”
The ROARS campaign underscores ATI-RTC 8’s commitment to empowering the next generation with knowledge and skills to contribute to food security and environmental sustainability.
