Leaders of Atok, extended their full support to the ATI-RTC-CAR for their unwavering support in commemorating the ATI’s 37th anniversary through a community outreach at Paoay, Atok, Benguet on February 20, 2024.
During the commencement of the 37th Anniversary celebration of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Atok Councilor Marilou Zarate conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Center for choosing Bosleng, Atok, Benguet, as the beneficiary among the 13 municipalities of Benguet and 8 sitios of Atok for this significant initiative. "Your commitment to serving our farmers is a big help to our farmers. Truly, we are moved by your concerns in cementing the livelihood of our farmers," she said with a smile. She acknowledged the importance of this celebration as a great opportunity for the local community and, particularly, for the farmers who have been grappling with challenges such as the low prices of "wombok" and "repolyo".
Mr. Oliver Oliem, represented Atok Mayor, Hon. Franklin L. Smith conveyed his warm greetings for the 37th ATI Anniversary. He pointed out that the honorable mayor expressed deep gratitude for the privilege bestowed upon Atok. Among all other municipalities, Atok was chosen to be a beneficiary of this community· program. The acknowledgment reflected the mayor's appreciation for the opportunity and the recognition of Atok's role in the community program.
Mr. Oliem also discussed a few of the proactive measures to aid agricultural challenges in the municipality through strategic partnerships and initiatives:
- Sisterhood with Atok, Benguet and Tagudin, Ilocos Sur (Kadiwa Program): The collaboration under the Kadiwa program demonstrates a strong bond between Atok and Tagudin. This initiative involves the transportation of vegetables to mutually support each other's communities. This cooperative effort reflects a commitment to mutual aid and economic cooperation, with the aim of enhancing agricultural trade between the two regions.
- Sisterhood with Atok, Benguet and Mandaluyong City (Vegetables and Tourism Promotion): Another sisterhood alliance, this time with Mandaluyong, focuses on the dual promotion of vegetables and tourism. The partnership aims to deliver high-quality vegetables to Mandaluyong, with a shared vision for promoting local agricultural products. The emphasis on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) ensures that the quality of vegetables, from harvest to delivery, meets industry standards. This approach strengthens the sustainability and success of the interregional collaboration, benefiting both Atok and Mandaluyong.
These initiatives underscore the LGU's commitment to finding innovative solutions and establishing partnerships to address challenges in the agricultural sector, fostering economic cooperation and promoting local products.
Sharing also her message, Ms. Cherry Sano, Atok Municipal Agriculturist expressed her gratitude to ATI-CAR for their unwavering support to the farmer community. She emphasized the significance of the partnership and provided insights into the process of compiling the list of farmers. Ms. Sano stressed the importance of reporting to the LGU, irrespective of whether assistance will be provided or not. Her encouragement for farmers to routinely report every affected area reflects a commitment to proactive and transparent communication.
Ms. Sano's emphasis on reporting, regardless of assistance, underscores the community's role in sharing vital information with the LGU. This approach promotes transparency and ensures that the necessary support can be directed to farmers based on accurate and up-to-date information about their needs and challenges. She advised the farmers not to be scared nor ashamed and even not to belittle the power of reporting because reflects the true picture of their conditions. She also highlighted the importance of farmers attending training sessions, barangay congress, and other meetings or conventions where the LGU can discuss their programs and plans for the agriculture sector of Atok. Recognizing the significance of these gatherings, she emphasized that participation in such events is crucial for farmers to stay informed about the latest initiatives, acquire new knowledge, and actively contribute to shaping the agricultural landscape in the municipality.
In response, Center Director, Charlie C. Sagudan shared his immense joy as ATI celebrated its 37th anniversary with the farmers of Atok, Benguet, despite the challenges faced in recent months. His expression of joy signifies the resilience and unity of the community in overcoming obstacles. Additionally, Mr. Sagudan emphasized the crucial role of teamwork, starting from the barangay council and extending to the local government unit. This reminder underscores the collaborative efforts needed at every level of governance to address challenges and promote the well-being of the agricultural sector inAtok.
In his message, TCD Sagudan highlighted key challenges faced by the community, including the lack of water supply, soil fertilization issues, the impact of an increasing consumer rate of rice due to rising birth rates, climate change, globalization, the surge in fuel prices, and the emergence of pest diseases. These challenges serve as important considerations for developing comprehensive strategies and collaborative solutions to sustain and improve agriculture in Atok. TCD Sagudan's message reflects a holistic understanding of the complex factors influencing the agricultural landscape and the importance of addressing them collectively.
In his Closing Message, Mr. Alyson Canuto, Owner of the PCJEAM Farm expressed his utmost gratitude for the success of the ; program and for choosing the PCJEAM Farm as the venue of the activity. The Canuto family extended their invitation to all farmers who wish to learn more from their practices. As a GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) certified farm, Mr.Canuto encouraged everyone to pursue GAP certification, emphasizing its importance for easily accessing benefits from the government based on the farmers' needs. He also highlighted the significance of being a certified GAP farm and stressed that it involves more than just being organized. He emphasized that becoming a certified GAP farm is a solution to the challenges faced, and he shared his own experiences in implementing such practices. His encouragement for fellow farmers to follow suit reflects a commitment to improving agricultural practices, ensuring quality, and collectively addressing challenges in the farming community.
As he concluded the activity, Mr. Alyson Canuto encouraged everyone to actively participate in seminars and training sessions. He emphasized that such engagements play a crucial role in improving agricultural practices. By diligently attending these educational events, farmers can gain valuable insights and knowledge that can significantly enhance their methods.
A luncheon activity was prepared after the event with a total of 125 individuals who happily ended the said activity.//with reports from Nikao Ramos
