As part of a continuous learning process, the staff took a journey of learning to the different Learning Sites for Agriculture in ATI-RTC-Region 1. While the Center similarly implements LSAs, there are different practices, technologies, and innovations for every site. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding the real-world application of knowledge gained through the training programs. It also involves interaction with experts and practitioners in the field which stimulates ideas for incorporating or introducing innovative concepts in training programs. Thus, on March 4-8, 2024, the ATI-RTC-CAR embarked on benchmarking activities in Pangasinan entitled “1st Semester Staff Development for CY 2024: Building Better Teams, Achieving Greater Heights.” The visit is also an opportunity for the staff to witness the positive impact of the efforts of ATI which can instill a sense of pride and motivation among staff members.
The first stop was at the Reotutar Institute of Science, Arts and Trades, Inc. (RISATI) located at Villasis, Pangasinan. Mr. Gilbert Soliven, focal on Marketing and Partnership and also the Tourism focal together with Mr. John A. Fabia, Academic Supervisor and Head Trainer of RISATI oriented the group on how RISATI came into existence. Briefly, RISATI is a 3.0 hectare located in opened to the public as a Garden Venue and Butterfly sanctuary in 2010 and expanded in the same year to include its waterpark, enclosed event venues, and accommodation. In March 2018, it earned the Department of Tourism’s certification as a Tourist Inn and in 2022 was accredited further as a National Tourist destination site, the first in the town of Villasis. In September 2018, it was certified as ATI-RTC 1 as Learning Site for Agriculture and in 2021, RISATI was accredited by the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute as National Extension Service Provider. Among the products and services they offer are: Vanilla Production, Organic Mulberry Production, Vermiculture Composting Facility, Organic Edible Urban Garden, and the recently added Mokusaku production which is considered as the first mokusaku facility in Region I. Additional learning areas are the Bougainvillea Grafting, Arid Aroids Propagation, Butterfly Sanctuary, and the Tissue Culture on Agricultural Crops and Horticulture.
The second LSA visited was at Fish Tech Philippines owned and operated by Mr. Westly Rosario, former Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Research Center chief. The farm is only a 1,000 square meter lot located Tapuac District Dagupan City. FishTech Philippines Inc., was certified by the Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center I as a Learning Site for Aquaculture and Agriculture in 2020. Later, it was upgraded to an agriculture and fisheries extension service provider in January 2023. Ms. Daisy Ramon Moyano, admin staff of Fish Tech Philippines, conducted the orientation and briefing to provide participants with a concise overview of the company’s inception and the current courses being offered. She toured the group and provided valuable insights into how Fish Tech Philippines achieved efficient fish growth in a very limited space.
The third and fourth days were devoted to team-building activities. As the ATI-RTC-CAR team pursues its deliverables for the year, it is good to start with a well-functioning team through team-building activities. A great team fosters collaboration, enhances productivity, and creates a positive and dynamic work environment. Hence, building the team should be a continuous process to develop and strengthen relationships, communication and capabilities of individuals working towards a common goal. It goes beyond the completion of tasks. It is about creating a cohesive and resilient group that can adapt to challenges, innovate, and achieve greater heights collectively. It is not only about improving working relationships but also about creating an environment where each member feels valued, understood, and empowered to contribute their unique skills and perspectives.
A short closing program was administered by the training management team at Alaminos Pangasinan.
Mr. Romualdo Bantag, Assistant for Technical Operations for CBF MAFF Project expressed his impression with joy and pride. He said that the activity has been incredibly enjoyable. From our visit to the RISATI Learning Site, he said that he gained insights into vanilla production, considering its potential adoption in his home province - Benguet. Additionally, he observed various Bougainvillea varieties, inspiring thoughts of incorporating them into our offices or homes. Lastly, he exclaimed that the visit to FishTech Philippines Inc. revealed that catfish production is viable even with limited space, offering valuable lessons for potential endeavors.
In addition, Mr. Ian Watawat, Administrative Assistance for PMEU impressively congratulated the TMT for organizing such a fruitful and meaningful activity. He said that the activity marked an initial participation in a staff development event held outside CAR, and the choice of LSAs for benchmarking proved to be excellent. He particularly pointed Mr. Fabia's insight at RISATI’s effectiveness of technologies which need not be overly complex. The accessibility of their extension modality, particularly in tissue culture, was well received. He claimed that the visit to FishTech Philippines Inc. introduced him to white Pangasius, a departure from the common gray and black, providing a new and interesting experience.
As a response, Mr. Charlie C. Sagudan, Center Director thanked the training management team for coming up with an innovative staff development, and that all staff were able to attain and enjoy. He hoped that the Learning Sites visited have impacted or enhanced our knowledge and skills in agricultural technologies which we can adapt to influence our LSAs in CAR.
A short visit to the ATI Regional Office in Region 1 was not missed out during the said event.
