Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay — In a proactive move to build stronger, more capable leaders in the agriculture sector, the Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center IX (ATI-RTC IX) hosted a three-day Training on Leadership and Self-Management from May 14 to 16, 2025, at the serene BAC Jazz Farm in Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The training brought together 29 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from various municipal and city agriculture offices across Region IX. With the goal of enhancing their leadership potential and personal effectiveness, the workshop focused on equipping AEWs with tools to better lead their communities, manage teams, and handle the demands of fieldwork.
“This training is about more than just theory,” said Ms. Chared D. Ladera, Information Officer II and one of the resource speakers. “It’s about empowering AEWs to lead with confidence and clarity, especially in challenging rural settings.”
Participants engaged in in-depth discussions and interactive sessions on various topics facilitated by seasoned experts: Mr. Christian Clyde Z. Ching, Head of Finance at Syntegral Global Solutions, guided participants through discovering their unique leadership styles and developing emotional intelligence to build stronger relationships with stakeholders. Ms. Glo Anne N. Darunday, OIC-Chief of CDMS, tackled the realities of stress among field-based workers and offered practical strategies for coping and self-care. Ms. Ladera shared insights on effective leadership and self-management in the context of extension work, reinforcing the vital role of AEWs in agricultural development.
For many attendees, the training was both enlightening and inspiring. “This is a great opportunity to share my acquired knowledge to my community and our organization,” said Mr. Gerald Glen Vicente, LGU Kumalarang.
Beyond technical knowledge, the event emphasized collaboration, communication, and the personal growth of AEWs—qualities deemed essential in fostering resilient agricultural communities.
As the agriculture sector continues to face dynamic challenges, ATI-RTC IX affirms its commitment to investing in the development of frontliners like AEWs, whose leadership will shape the future of rural progress in the region.
