With a deep commitment to empowering farmers, enhancing agricultural productivity, and bridging the gap between innovative farming techniques and local communities, ATI-RTC-CAR organized a momentous event in search of an Outstanding Trainer in Agricultural Extension in the region as part of the 2024 CAR LGU Trainerโs Assembly with a theme Transformative Training: Pathway to an Effective and Competitive AFE in CAR on September 25-26, 2024 at ATI-CAR.
ATI continually develops AEWs with an exceptional ability to listen to farmers' needs and provide tailored advice that addresses their unique challenges. Through hands-on training, workshops, and continuous support, it has helped countless farmers adopt sustainable practices, leading to increased yields and improved livelihoods.
As such, the center recognizes the important role of these AEWs. Hence, AEWs were commended and recognized through the activity for their unwavering passion for education and community engagement to pursue agricultural excellence. As partners, AEWs' effort exudes an impact on the agricultural landscape, fostering resilience and sustainability in the communities in the region.
During the program, nominees and awardees received certificates and cash awards. Awards include Top Performing Trainer in Agricultural Extension under banner programs of Livestock, High-Value Crop Development, Rice, Organic Agriculture, and Regular; and the major award of Outstanding Trainer in Agricultural Extension.
Awardees for the Major Award, Outstanding Trainer in Agricultural Extension, Ms. Novy L. Canggat of LGU-Mankayan grabbed first place with a 90.48 average score. For second place, Ms. Marjorie V. Casilla from LGU-Itogon. Meanwhile, Ms. Jane B. Dela Rosa of LGU-Luna took third place, Mr. Roderick C. Paturay of OPAg-Apayao achieved fourth place while Mr. Japhet F. Agbayani of LGU-Sta. Marcela took the fifth spot.
Also, awardees of Top Performing Trainer by Program include; Ms. Jackelyn O. Quinto for the Livestock Program, Ms. Novy L. Canggat for the HVCD Program, Ms. Marjorie V. Casilla for the Rice Program, Ms. Jane B. Dela Rosa for the Organic Agriculture Program, and Mr. Marlou K. Daliling for the Regular Program.
The paper evaluators were Ms. Virginia A. Tapat, PhilEASNet- CAR Chapter, Vice President; Dr. Constantino T. Sudaypan Jr., Dean, College of Agriculture, Benguet State University; Dr. Jamesly T. Andres, Department Chair, College of Agriculture, Benguet State University; Ms. Aida Y. Pagtan, Chief, RAFIS, DA-RFO-CAR; and Mr. Ryan U. Palunan, RAFC Chair, Cordillera Administrative Region.
Furthermore, the assembly includes a learning session focusing on Digital Agriculture in Extension facilitated by Mr. Joeven C. Calasagsag of ATI-ISD; The New Rice Varieties for Integrated Lowland Ecosystem in Cordillera through Ms. Veronica Fang-asan of DA-CIARC; and Potato and Ube Quality Planting Material Production by Mr. Gabby Dao-ines and Ms. Vanessa Maye Kalinggan of BSU- NPRCRTC during its first day.
Consequently, a field visit on BSU-NPRCRTC was set to showcase technologies developed that potentially enhanced the quality of crops in the region.
Moreover, on the second day, the learning session revolves around Black Soldier Fly as Alternative Feed for Livestock elaborated by Dr. Ana Mendoza of BSU- Cordillera Center for Animal Research & Development (CCARD); and Enhanced/ Updated Aquatic Technologies through Mr. Lorence Ognasi of BFAR-CAR.
