The ATI-RTC-CAR in partnership with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), successfully conducted the Training of Trainers on Leadership and Technical Skills for Small Water Irrigation System Association (SWISA) Officers and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in Luzon on March 23-29, 2025 at the Center’s Aspulan Hall, La Trinidad, Benguet.
The training aims to enhance the participants’ leadership skills and technical knowledge in the operation and maintenance of Small-Scale Irrigation Project (SSIPs). Participants were provided updates on the rice industry situation in the Philippines, engaged in discussions on effective leadership principles and enhanced essential skills in the operation and maintenance of SSIPs to support sustainable water management in their communities. They also visited Dome Garden and a SWISA SIP site in Itogon, Benguet and explored various irrigation components and learned best practices in farm and association management.
“This training is timely and relevant for us because SWISA is just being established in our area. We have learned many terms and concepts that we need to share with the farmers to help ensure the success of their organization. The challenge now is finding the best way to share what we've learned with the farmers” said Engr. Jaira Faith M. Baylon during the sharing of impression and insights.
The successful completion of this training program is expected to have a lasting impact on the rice production sector in the Philippines. By enhancing the leadership and technical skills of AEWs and farmer-leaders, the initiative contributes to improved SSIP management and agricultural practices, and increased farm productivity and income.//Allen Olat, CDMS Technical Support Staff
