The Agricultural Training Institute – Cordillera Administrative Region (ATI-CAR) held a 2-day Regional Consultation on October 3-4, 2024 at Dammuhan Hall, ATI-CAR, BSU Compound, La Trinidad. Involving partner extension stakeholders’, the activity aimed to present, validate, and finalize the Draft Extension and Training Roadmap for Potato (2026-2030) and prioritize strategies relevant to the current needs of the industry.
Acknowledging the importance of roadmaps that outlined strategic thrusts and directions for the priority commodity industries in the country, ATI is in a strategic position to lead the formulation of an Extension and Training Commodity Roadmap in support of priority and emerging commodities. Keeping in view of the role of Local Government Units (LGUs) as direct agriculture and fisheries extension providers for farmers and fisherfolk, the roadmap unites the shared goals of these stakeholders, including national government agencies and private sector extension providers, to foster the growth of the sector.
Dr. Cristine B. Esnara, ATI-CAR, HVCD Focal, presented the draft Philippine Potato Roadmap for 2019-2023, outlining the current state of the potato industry in the Philippines. The presentation highlighted various challenges the sector faces, along with clearly defined goals and targets aimed at fostering growth. Key strategies were discussed, which were developed collaboratively during the roadmap's formulation.
Participants contributed by providing updates to previously used data, enhancing the roadmap with more accurate and current information. This collaborative effort is essential for ensuring that the roadmap effectively supports the potato industry’s development and addresses the identified challenges.
The Regional Commodity Roadmap Task Force utilized the workshop output during the attended activity on developing an extension and training roadmap for priority commodities facilitated by Dr. Evelyn Aro-Esquejo, an expert in agricultural extension and planning and former ATI Assistant Director.
