DILIMAN, Quezon City- Following the completion of their Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO), a send-off ceremony was held to mark a significant milestone for the 50 interns of the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan (FYFIPT) Batch 7 as they prepared to embark on their internship journey in Taiwan.
The FYFIPT stands as a testament to the Agricultural Training Institute’s (ATI) continued commitment to developing globally competitive Filipino farmers who can drive innovation, sustainability, and food security in the country.
ATI Director Remelyn R. Recoter, MNSA, CESO III, emphasized the importance of the internship in equipping young farmers with knowledge, skills, and innovations that can help advance Philippine agriculture. She also encouraged the interns to maximize the opportunity and share their learnings with fellow farmers and their communities.
“When you return, apply what you have learned. Share your knowledge and contribute to your communities. Use these experiences to help build productive and sustainable farms.” Dir. Recoter added.
The ceremony was also attended by Atty. Brigite M. Da Costa-Villaluz, Member of the Board of Directors of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). In her message, she highlighted the strong partnership between the Philippines and Taiwan, through MECO and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), in advancing the agricultural sector and creating opportunities for young Filipino farmers.
Deputy Representative Dustin T. Yang of TECO likewise attended the event and announced several support measures for the interns, including the waiver of visa fees, the standardization of monthly allowances amounting to USD 700, and increased compensation for overtime work.
The send-off ceremony also recognized the top three graduate interns for their outstanding agribusiness proposals:
First Place was awarded to Ms. Arlene P. Brosas of Legazpi City, Albay, for her proposal, “Smart Fertigation System and Greenhouse Expansion Upgraded for Honeydew Melon Production.”
Second Place was awarded to Engr. Anna Mae A. Apatan of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, for her proposal, “Papaya (Carica papaya) Ice Cream: A High-Value, Profitable Agri-business for Sustainable Fruit Processing and Market Growth.”
Third Place was awarded to Ms. Josie N. Binwag of Lamut, Ifugao, for her proposal, “Graft and Grow Farm.”
In their impression, Batch Sibol expressed deep appreciation for the program, highlighting how the PDO prepared them not only academically, but also physically, mentally, and emotionally for the internship. They shared insights on the discipline instilled by daily routines, the importance of proper nutrition and rest, and the value of learning Mandarin to overcome communication challenges. They also acknowledged the role of mentors, trainers, and ATI staff in helping build their readiness and confidence.
More importantly, they reflected on their responsibility as young leaders, expressing their commitment to bringing home new knowledge, innovations, and a renewed sense of purpose for the advancement of Philippine agriculture.
Meanwhile, ATI Deputy Director Antonieta J. Arceo, delivered her closing message and encouraged the interns to remain steadfast and committed throughout their stay in Taiwan.
“I hope that the 11 months in Taiwan will be filled with learning, growth, and meaningful experiences that will shape you into more capable and compassionate leaders in the future. Go forth with courage, remain steadfast in your purpose, and return home with knowledge and skills that will help uplift Filipino agriculture and inspire others to follow in your footsteps,” she said.
The send-off ceremony was held on June 5, 2026, at the ATI Rural Development Education Center (RDEC) Function Hall in Diliman, Quezon City.
FYFIPT Batch 7 departed for Taiwan on June 8, 2026, carrying with them not only technical knowledge and skills but also the resilience, discipline, and vision needed to become future leaders in agriculture. They are scheduled to return to the Philippines on May 8, 2027.
Written by Joshua Ace Marcos from PAD
