LA TRINIDAD, Benguet - In an ongoing effort to advance agricultural technologies, the Japan Agricultural Exchange Council, in collaboration with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), is committed to the effective implementation of the Safe Vegetable Production Technology Dissemination and Vegetable Distribution System (SAVERS) Project. As the Project Management Office, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring that the project meets its objectives and benefits all stakeholders involved.
The SAVERS Project introduces two key technologies: the Safe Vegetables from Rich Soils and the Farmers’ Improvement of Vegetable Packing and Shipment. Aimed to enhance farmers' income while addressing environmental concerns, the Project likewise aimed to improve the vegetable distribution system from farmers to retail stores across the country. The project was initially implemented in the 10 provinces, namely Pangasinan, Nueva Vizcaya, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Camarines Norte, and Benguet.
Representatives from the local government units, ATI-Regional Training Centers (RTCs), Project Steering Committee members, and beneficiaries convened for a workshop focused on preparing the Project Completion Report and developing a sustainability plan for the SAVERS Project.
Hosted by ATI-Central Office through the Partnership and Accreditation Division and the Japan Agricultural Exchange Council, the activity emphasized the significance of strengthening both the project, its associated technologies, and its stakeholders with a sustainability plan.
Set to be completed in March 2025, the implementing agencies agreed to have a sustainability plan to enhance the Mokusaku and Cold Storage Facility, identify existing challenges, and come up with viable solutions while sharing the best practices to improve operational efficiency. Part of the plan was to identify areas of collaboration to continue the programs and activities initiated by various organizations, including the Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Offices and ATI-RTCs.
Utilizing a PEER (Participatory, Empathic, Enterprising, and Respectful) workshop culture, the participants engaged in several interactive activities, such as Rapid Ideation: A brainstorming session aimed at generating innovative solutions; Mapping Journey: An exercise to visualize outcomes from the Rapid Ideation phase; and Sustainability Plan Development: Crafting actionable plans.
The workshop also intended to solicit a renewed commitment to support from the partner institutions for the SAVERS Project’s sustainability plan. Their pledges would reflect a collective dedication in ensuring that the benefits of the project extend beyond its official end date.
Taking place at the ATI-RTC in the Cordillera Administrative Region, the activity is held from November 5 to 8, 2024, marking a significant step towards fostering sustainable agricultural practices in their respective region.
