The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) traces its origins to Executive Order No. 116, signed by President Corazon C. Aquino on January 30, 1987. As ATI commemorates its 37th Anniversary, the institute has chosen the theme "Innovate, Collaborate, Succeed" as a guiding principle for the activities and initiatives planned for this significant milestone.
This theme succinctly captures the essence of ATl's journey over the past nearly four decades. It reflects the institute's commitment to innovation, exploring and implementing new technologies, methodologies, and approaches to enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience within the agricultural sector. Additionally, collaboration stands as a cornerstone of ATl's mission, recognizing the interconnectedness of agricultural systems and actively seeking partnerships with diverse entities, including government agencies, non governmental organizations, academic institutions, and private sector entities.
As ATI looks back on its achievements, it eagerly looks forward to the future, guided by the principles of innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to success. This anniversary celebration serves as a moment to reflect on the institute's contributions to the agricultural landscape and to renew its dedication to fostering positive change in the years ahead.
This year, in response to the recent challenges faced by farmers in the rural community of Atok, Benguet, including issues such as low vegetable prices, frost, and forest fires, ATI-RTC-CAR is extending its success to support the affected farmers. Atok, known as one of the leading vegetable-producing municipalities in the province, has been significantly impacted by these challenges, affecting the local economy and community well-being.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the importance of collective action, ATI-RTC-CAR views this initiative as an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the affected farmers and provide support to help them overcome these obstacles. This Center initiative is rooted in gratitude towards stakeholders, an acknowledgment of the municipality's significance in the regional agricultural landscape, and a commitment to fostering rural development.
In collaboration with partners such as Benguet State University-Horticultural Research and Training Institute, Bureau of Plant Industry-Baguio National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center, Encam Agri Marketing, SeedWorks Philippines Inc., Pilipinas Kaneko Seeds Corporation and East-West Seed Philippines, the ATI-RTC-CAR distributed assorted vegetable seeds, lemon seedlings, and learning materials to 75 farming families.
The community outreach was co-hosted by the Atok Municipal Local Government Unit, specifically through its Municipal Agriculture Office, the PCJEAM Farm LSA at Wagangan, Paoay, Atok, Benguet on February 20, 2024.//Nikao Ramos, HR Support Staff
