PASAY CITY- Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) personnel, youth interns, and partners gathered recently to celebrate its 38th anniversary with the theme “Youth in Agriculture: Cultivating Innovations through Partnerships.” The event underscored the Institute’s commitment to empowering the younger generation and advancing the agricultural sector through collaborative efforts.
The celebration highlighted the launch of the International Internship Program in Israel in partnership with Agro Studies which will provide young Filipino farmers with the opportunity to receive advanced agricultural training abroad to broaden their knowledge and skills in modern farming techniques.
In the message of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu P. Laurel, Jr., delivered by Undersecretary for Operations, Agri-Fisheries Mechanization and Rural Credit Roger Navarro, the DA Chief emphasized, “Agriculture is not just livelihood, it is life.” Likewise, the DA Secretary extended his congratulations to ATI for its 38 years of service and excellence and its unwavering commitment to uplifting farmers, fishers, and the youth is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive agricultural sector.
“Let us continue to work together—fostering collaboration, embracing innovation, and investing in people. Together, we will create an agricultural sector that is not only resilient but also a source of pride and prosperity for all Filipinos.” Laurel added.
Another highlight of the event was the launch of the ATIng Extension on Wheels, designed to bring essential agricultural resources and support directly to rural communities. The ATI Regional Training Centers in Western Visayas and SOCCSKSARGEN, being the proponents of the project, received the mock keys as a symbol of the vehicle being handed over to them.
Moreover, ATI unveiled the DigiAgriHacki, a new initiative aimed at accelerating the development of digital solutions for sustainable agriculture.
Another significant moment was the ceremonial awarding of start-up enterprise funds to the second batch of interns from the Youth Internship Program on Organic Agriculture.
On the other hand, ATI Director Remelyn Recoter conveyed, “As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that the future of agriculture is a shared responsibility. While ATI remains at the forefront of agricultural training and education, we cannot do it alone.”
Recoter also thanked ATI’s partners in the public and private sectors, “we encourage you to continue supporting our efforts to create more opportunities for the youth. The journey is not always easy, but know that your resilience and creativity inspire us all,” Recoter added.
Likewise, Recoter congratulated the ATI Family for the 38 years of excellence and dedication. Stressing that their hard work, innovation, and collaboration are what keep everyone moving forward.
ATI also formalized its partnership with the Department of Science and Technology - Science and Technology Information Institute for the STARBOOKS program through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.
Meanwhile, the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. through its Vice President Edric Calma, endorsed the second Anak TV Seal Award and a nomination for the Catholic Mass Media Awards to the ATI’s AgriKids program.
The last part of the celebration was the Gabi ng Parangal which is an awarding ceremony to recognize the top performing operating units at the Central Office and Regional Training Centers. A conferment of loyalty awardees and retirees for FY 2024 followed.
The event was graced by His Excellency Ilan Fluss, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines; Atty. Rhaegee Tamana, Chief of Staff, Office of Senator Villar; Dir. Mary Grace R. Mandigma, Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Standards; Executive Director Glenn DC. Estrada, Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority; Adm. Larry R. Lacson, PhD, National Food Authority; Director Emerson Yago, Rice Clustering and Consolidation under MRIDP and Atty. Alexandra V. Aborita, 4H National President.
The event was held last January 29, 2025, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
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