A great team fosters collaboration, enhances productivity, and creates a positive and dynamic work environment. In line with this, 39 staff of ATI-CAR embarked on a meaningful journey on March 3-5, 2025 aiming to cultivate and sustain a performing team through a staff development activity, "Innovation in Motion: Regional Learning Exchange with ATI- CALABARZON."
The enriching experience began with a visit to the ATI-Central Office. Assistant Director Antonieta J. Arceo gave an inspiring message, boosting the staff's motivation in pursuing the objective of the activity. Ms. Arlene S. Nilo, AFU-OD Head, warmly guided the delegation in their meet-and-greet with each division, fostering camaraderie and professional exchange.
The ATI-CAR team proceeded to ATI-CALABARZON, where they received a heartfelt welcome setting the stage for a meaningful benchmarking session. A brief but memorable meet-and-greet activity and learning session took place with their counterpart sections and units. This promoted the establishment of genuine relationships between the staff of both regional training centers and an excellent opportunity to share practices and ideas aimed at strengthening their respective offices.
Further, the delegation explored two (2) Learning Sites for Agriculture - Luntiang Republika, and Auspere Nature Farm. At Luntiang Republika, Head Farmer Eduardo B. Cleofe shared invaluable insights into their farm business model and management. He underscored that “each farm is an expression of the farmer who created it…when we walk across a farm, we feel the essence of the farmer who works that land.”
At Auspere Nature Farm, the team witnessed a mesmerizing farm view and delightful products while gaining practical knowledge on cacao production and processing.
Capping off the Staff Development activity, the team visited the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Laguna. The team was given the chance to visit the International Rice Genebank Facility and the Plant Growth Facility, broadening their understanding of rice research and innovations crucial to agricultural development. //Manilyn P. Dalmo with Jam R. Balingan
