With the aim to bring in the youths from the different area of the region to enhance their skills, knowledge and attitude as an effective member/leader of the 4-H Club, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 9 (ATI-RTC 9) conducted the 10th Regional 4-H Youth Camp, which was participated by around 80 delegates composed of 4-H members, 4-H coordinators and VLAP Members from the different provinces and cities of Zamboanga Peninsula.
This years’ theme is “4-H EVOLVE: Expanding the Value of Leadership and Volunteerism Over 70 Years of 4-H Excellence.”, which provides 4-H members with the chance to represent their respective provinces and cities and gain exposure to more opportunities to develop and increase their agri-fisheries skills and knowledge.
Regional Technical Director for Operations Mr. Reynaldo Campomanes represented Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 9 (DA-RFO 9) Regional Executive Director Dir. Dennis Arpia on the keynote address. He emphasizes the role of the youth as the future in farming.
Hon. Joselito Macrohon, the Committee Chair of Agriculture of Zamboanga City, rendered his message of support to the activity and to the program as well. Hon. Macrohon expressed his gratitude for inviting him in the said event. And OIC – Center Director Gerry Pagarigan, DVM, in his message of support expressed his encouragement to the youth to become farmer leaders in their communities and in the society.
Before the opening program ends, ATI 9 4-H Focal Person Ms. Chared Ladera presented the rational, objectives, overview and schedule of the activity to the group.
The activity then proceeded to the first plenary talk entitled, Farming for the Future: Youth in the transformation of our food system by Mr. Moncini A. Hinay and his team from Kids Who Farm. The second plenary talk on Youth for Digital Agriculture by ATI 9 ISS Chief Ms. Belly Joy A. Villazorda, then followed.
In the evening, three (3) contests were successfully conducted to wit: 4-H Song Writing and Singing Contest; 4-H Short Film and 4-H Promotional Merchandise, which were eagerly participated by the contestant of each delegation.
The second day started with the third plenary talk on Urban Agriculture for the Youth by Ms. Cherry Jane V. Bagonggong, CDMS Technical Staff of ATI 9. And finally, the fourth plenary talk was about Mental Health for the Youth Mr. Juniebe L. Mangahonoy, RPm, LPT, MPA, CHRA, HRMO Zamboanga City.
The participants shared teamwork and camaraderie among the different delegation as they enjoyed the team building activities in the afternoon, while in the evening, the Candle Lighting Ceremony was solemnly conducted.
The culmination program then followed. Few chosen participants rendered their learnings and insights during the event. “In my own perspective, the activity itself provides relevant information that will help us widen our knowledge about the issues on our agricultural sector and also provide a simple solution that will give an impact to our community.” said Mr. Emmanuel Q. Empeynado from 4-H Club Dapitan City.
As a neophyte 4-H Club Member, I always put myself being observant to all the happenings while in the camp. I have learned a lot of things during the event especially the efficient way of cultivating and sustaining agriculture. My impression towards the agriculture and its future was boosted higher and it drives me to act and share advocacies. Mr. Roberto Anggot, Jr from 4-H Club Pagadian City also shared in his learnings.
Ms. Chared Ladera, 4-H Regional Focal Person in her response said, “May your learnings and experiences be our lessons to make us better individuals in the society, to become a better 4-H member and a youth that advocates agriculture in our community.”
The certificate of appreciation was awarded to all the people and institutions that contributes the success of the activity. And the winners were also awarded with the certificate of recognition. Hence, the over-all champion of this year’s 4-H Regional Youth Camp is the 4-H Club Federation of Pagadian City.
Another highlight of the activity was the farm visit to a successful 4-Her, Mr. Jeffrey Sereño owner of Cafelayan Hydroponic Farm in Brgy. Tulungatung, Zamboanga City. The 10th Regional 4-H Youth Camp was conducted last June 27-29, 2023 at Harmony Village, Sinunuc, Zamboanga City.
