Highlights - Agricultural Training Institute...15. Bahay-Kubo 2.0 16. Green + Smart Engineering 17. ASEAN Free Trade: Are the Local Farmers Prepared? 18. Saving Water in Irrigated

Reaching Out. Building Dreams. Changing Lives /ATI-CAR Narrative Report/May 2016 1

ATI-QF-PPD-03 Effectivity Date: 31 October 2013

ATI in the CORDILLERA

MAY NARRATIVE REPORT

Highlights

I. Enhancing Access to Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Products and

Services

A. e-Extension

Table 1. Online Courses Administered

Online courses Enrollees Graduates

Savouring the Green Brew:

Arabica Coffee Production

10 7

Basic Beekeeping 6

Training Management 18 2

Total 34 9

B. Techno-Gabay Program

Visited the following FITS Centers:

1. San Isidro, Abra

2. Lagayan, Abra

3. Villaviciosa, Abra

4. Pilar, Abra

1st Semester Farmers and Information and Technology Service (FITS) Meeting

–May 13, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

In a separate meeting during the conduct of the CAR LGU Managers Assembly, Mr.

Maximino Aromin gave an orientation on the Techno Gabay Program of ATI to the CAR LGU

Agriculture Office Managers. He delivered an update on FITS, Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) and

other programs of the information Services. He also discussed the schedule for MS evaluation

for new FITS applicants, validation of TNA, reminders on report submission and monitoring

activities. A list of the FITS centers established by each province was presented. Ideally, each

municipality should have one FITS center. The provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, and Mt. Province

have already completed the establishment of FITS centers in all their municipalities.

In summary, a total of 54 FITS centers were already established in the region as of 2015,

of which only 50 are active. For 2016, 11 requests were already submitted and on- site

evaluations were already done for the province of Abra.

Moreover, the FITS Centers (FITSC) as Rice Crop Manager (RCM) Deployment hub was

discussed where 15 are targeted for 2016 and the MAs can signify their intention to avail.



C. Knowledge Products Development, Reproduction and Dissemination

Table 2. Techno/Non-Techno Based/Promotional Materials Reproduced and Distributed

Techno/Non-techno based and promotional

materials

No. of copies

reproduced

No. of copies

distributed

1. PNS 105 105

2. GAP Cassava 150 150

3. OA-ICS 95 95

4. RA 10068 60 60

5. The Philippine Organic Act of 2010 60 60

6. What is OA? 60 60

7. 4H Handbook 35 35

8. RCM 800 800

9. LABS PIG 500

10. Natural Pig Farming 50 50

11. Swine Production 50 50

12. Organic Fermented Products for OA 50 50

13. Recipes on Soy Bean 70 70

14. Cassava Processing 70 70

15. GAD Symposium Hand outs 132 132

16. Paano Magkaroon ng Sariling Pananim na Mais 500 100

17. Produksyon ng Malagkit na Palay 500

18. FPJ as Fertilizer 500 100

19. Sweet Potato 100

20. Ginger 100

21. Farmers Guide on Bio-Organic Inputs from Plants,

Fish & Animal Liquid Extracts

100

22. FAA 100

23. (KB-Halaman) FPJ 500 100

24. Rootcrop-Based Products Recipe 120 120

25. How to Make Fertilizer from Wastes 100

26. GAP 100

27. E-Bag 100

28. Calendar 39

29. How to Grow Organic Rice? 200

30. IEC Materials on Rice Production 948

31. Library Logbook on IEC Materials distributed 2492

TOTAL 4,407 6,586

Digitized four (4) materials

1. Differences of a man and woman

2. How to register your business

3. Personal entrepreneurial competencies

4. My personal balance sheet

Acquired 19 text books/technical manuals

1. Building Dreams, Changing Lives (Volume 2) ATI’s Treasury of Inspiring Stories

2. Propagation of Some Indigenous Reforestation Species (Volume 2)

3. Handbook on the Identification and Control of Pigeon Pea Insect Pests and

Diseases



4. On-Farm Research Manual: Crop-Livestock Systems

5. On-Farm Research Manual: Fisheries-Guideline in the Conduct of Yield Trials of

Fisheries Technology and for the Assessment/Enhancement of Fisheries

Resources

6. The Philippine Recommends for Sustainable Small Ruminant-Coconut

Production System

7. The Philippines Recommends for Furniture of Wood

8. The Philippines Recommends for Rodent Control

9. The Philippines Recommends Beef Cattle Production

10. The Philippines Recommends for Corn Postproduction Operations

11. The Philippine Recommends for Water-Saving Technologies for Rice and other

Crops

12. BAR & SUCs: Forging a Durable Partnership

13. Corn Post Harvest Processing & Trading Center: Raising the Income of Corn

Farmers in the Central Mindanao

14. The Struggle for Children’s Dreams

15. Bahay-Kubo 2.0

16. Green + Smart Engineering

17. ASEAN Free Trade: Are the Local Farmers Prepared?

18. Saving Water in Irrigated Farms

19. Let’s Farm not Arm

Subscribed to 27 newspapers/magazines.

Served 52 library clients.

D. Knowledge Systems Management (ICT Services)

Maintained 31 work stations (desktop computer units) which were regularly checked

to avoid loss of data and other pertinent document.

Undertaken 21 equipment maintenance

Undertaken four (4) equipment repairs

Maintained two (2) Local Area Network connections for easier access to services via

the internet.

Maintained 10 agriculture-related data and information.

Published three (3) webpages in the ATI-CAR’s website. These can be accessed at

www.ati.da.gov.ph/car.

o Forty-eight more individuals in CAR passed the TESDA National Certificate(NC)

II on Agricultural Crop Production

o All systems for the DA-RFO, ATI-CAR and 4H CAR Chapter to host the 4H Club

National Convention

o ATI in the Cordillera reviews first quarter operations

http://www.ati.da.gov.ph/car



II. Strengthening Competitiveness and Capacities of the Agriculture and

Fisheries Sector

A. Training and Extension Support to Regular Programs and Commodities

REGULAR PROGRAM

Training on Livestock Production (Swine, Goat and Cattle) as Livelihood Enhancement for the

Farmers of the 4th to 6th Class and Poorest Municipalities of Tayum and Peñarrubia, Abra

(May 2-5, 2016)

Records of the Philippine Statistics Authority (2013) shows that Abra’s poverty incidence

among families is 34.4% which is 12.1% higher to the Philippine’s average poverty incidence.

This simply means that majority of the households in the municipality are still living below

the poverty line especially those who are in remote and depressed areas where the

municipalities of Tayum and Peñarrubia belongs. A 5th and 6th class municipalities

respectively with their economy highly dependent on agriculture.

Livestock makes an important contribution to most economies especially in developing

countries (Worldbank). It produces food, provide security, enhance crop production, generate

cash income for rural and urban population, provide fuel and transport and produce value

added goods which can have multiplier effects and create a need for services

The municipalities of Tayum and Peñarrubia have extensive grassland and pasture areas

which are very much suitable for livestock production. Hence, these training designed for

them will provide guideline to farmers in small scale livestock production and management

as a source of livelihood.

A total of 68 farmers from the two municipalities actively participated and graduated in

the training.

As a result, here in were the responses of participants:

"Nagpapasalamat kami ng lubos sa inyong mga taga-ATI. Malaki ang maitutulong ng

training na ito sa aming mga magsasaka. Bilang mga magsasaka interesado kami na matuto

kaya pumunta kami sa training na ito. Ngunit ang problema po pagkatapos ng training na ito

kung wala po kaming gagamitin na kapital ay useless din lang. Kaya dapat sana magbigay ang

ating gobyerno ng tulong kapital o kaya ay magpahiram sila sa mababang interest uapng hindi

kami mahirapan na magsimula at umangat ang aming buhay sa pagsasaka. Nagpapasalamat

kami sa panginoong Diyos dahil binigyan kami ng pagkaktaon na maka-attend sa mga training

katulad nito. Nadagdagan ang aming mga kaalaman. Hindi po namin mapapalitan ang inyong

pagod sa pagpunta dito upang kami ay turuan”, Mr. Leo Aquilano expressed.

"Isa po akong nagsisimula palang na negosyante sa livestock production. Ang natutunan ko

sa training na ito ay dapat una sa lahat na alam natin kung anu ang purpose natin, fattening

ba o inahin? Maganda rin na dapat alam natin kung anu ang adaptable dito sa ating lugar.

Napakahalaga po na pagplanuhan nating mabuti para hindi po tayo malugi”. – A learning

insight shared by Mr. Demeterio Guinaban Jr. of Dumayco, Peñarrubia,Abra.

"Dati akong nag alaga ng hog fattening. Nung una ay maganda ang kita ko ngunit nung

tumagal tagal na ay bumababa na ang aking kita. Siguro pagkatapos ng training na ito ay

maibabalik ko ang dating sigla ng negosyo ko. Magpasalamat tayo sa ATI dahil libre ang lahat

ng kailangan natin, may libreng meryenda at pagkain, madami pa tayong natutunan. Kung tayo

ay magtratraining sa sarili nating gastos ay kailangan natin ng libu-libo. Sa ngalan po ng lahat



ng farmers mula dito sa Peñarrubia, nagpapasalamat po kami ng lubos sa Agricultural Training

Institute at sa aming mga resource persons."- An impression shared by Mr. Mario Turqueza of

Patiao, Peñarrubia, Abra.

The pre and post test result shows an average of 30% learning increment of the 23

participants who were able to complete the test out of the 29 total participants. This implies

that the participants have gained significant knowledge on livestock production. Their

application of the knowledge and skills gained through this training were shown in their

action plans for implementation six months to one year after the conduct of the training. This

will be monitored by the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit of the Center.

Overall, both trainings were rated very satisfactory as well as the Resource Person Dr.

Delfina Layagan.

A total cost of P100,898.00 was incurred for the successful implementation of these

activities.

Training on Turmeric & Mt. Tea Leaves Processing, Packaging & Labeling as Livelihood

Enhancement Training for Farmers of the Top 15 Poorest Municipalities of Mt. Province-May

25-27, 2016 @ Livelihood center, Kin-iway, Besao, Mt. Province

The local food processing industry is gaining popularity nowadays and growing in

number. These locally processed foods and products are well accepted by all classes of

consumers. Also, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and food packaging and labeling are

complimentary course geared towards the development of these industries.

Food processing is one of the most promising enterprise which can greatly contribute to

the economic status especially of those who are in the rural areas which possess variety of

products to be processed.

The municipality of Besao, Mt. Province belonging to the 5th class are producing plenty of

turmeric and mountain tea leaves which are sold fresh in the local market but not all are being

sold. The community realized that these unsold products can be processed into turmeric

powder, tea bags and others but they lack the skills in processing, packaging and labelling.

The agriculture office then requested this training to ATI for funding and implementation

since it will also be a good source of income for the community especially the farmers and

rural women involved, Hence, this training.

This was then attended and participated by 42 farmers and two (2) extension workers.

Combinations of lecture-discussion and table demonstration were used as a strategy

acquiring best results from the participants.

The desire to learn is shown in actions. A question and answer portion between the participants and RP.



Insights shared by the participants were as

follows:

o You should have the passion to pursue livelihood projects. o Success comes with a thousand mistakes. o Mistakes or errors are investments for better product. o It’s never too late to learn these skills in baking, don’t tell that you are old for this

endeavor and this is only good for the younger generations.

Overall, the activity had an average rating of 3.96 equivalent to Very Satisfactory. The choice of resource person and instructional materials used were rated highest with 4.18 and 4.15 ratings respectively. The three Resource Persons also have the following ratings and descriptive equivalents;

Ms. Susan Likigan – 3.520 – Very Satisfactory

Mr. Denver Sibayan – 4.218 – Very Satisfactory

Ms. Jones Malwagay – 4.474 – Very Satisfactory

They were rated highest on their ability to communicate ideas, ability to answer

questions, and ability to manage time.

The activity’s incurred a total cost of 59, 173.00 for its successful implementation

Training on Natural Livestock Farming and Organic Concoction Preparation for Differently-

Abled Persons (DAPs) of Sagada, Mt. Province-May 24-26, 2016 @ Poblacion, Sagada, Mt.

Province

Early this year, the LGU of Sagada proposed training specifically on Organic Backyard

Swine Production for the organization of Differently Abled Persons (DAPs). This is because

the municipality has an increasing demand of organic raised pigs as compared to commercial

fed. Also, there is higher income projected in organic pig raising since inputs utilizes local

forages with the addition of organic fermented concoctions. As expressed by the participants,

the training will enable them to have a doable alternative income generating activity.

This was then participated mostly by the 33 parents and guardians of DAPs of the

municipality.

The training resulted with learnings from the participants shared as follows:

"This training is better than school. It gives

practical learning. We have learned by doing

what was lectured". –Linda Atiwag

"During the lecture, I was given an idea on

how to develop my own farm. This training has

once again reminded and encourage us to go

on organic farming. We are very thankful that

this training was conducted here in Sagada and

I was able to join. We did actual preparation of

the concoction after the training which cannot

be easily forgotten ". –Julian Depidip

Actual application of turmeric

processing

Getting ready for organic concoction

preparation



Overall, the activity had an average rating of 3.850 equivalent to Very Satisfactory of

which the methodologies used obtained the highest rating of 3.920. The Resource Persons

obtained the following ratings:

Dr. Josephine Dao-wan – 4.024 – Very Satisfactory

Ms. Janice Lizardo – 3.838 – Very Satisfactory

The activity utilized a total cost of P59,173.00.

Training on Product Processing for the Rural Women of Mt. Province and Ifugao: Livelihood

Training on Root Crop Processing, Packaging and Labeling cum GMP for Rural Improvement

Club (RICs) Members and Young Mothers of Sagada, Mt. Province-May 25-27,2016 @ Sagada

Guest House, Sagada, Mt. Province

Sagada is a 5th class municipality with rice as the major crop produced, followed by root

crops, assorted highland vegetables, fruits, various legumes and corn. Majority of the

population are farmers but due to limited areas of agricultural lots, family income from

agriculture is not sufficient in most farming households, hence most family members venture

into other off farm livelihood projects such as tour guiding, processing and selling of readily

prepared foods and snacks from locally available agricultural produce to augment their family

needs.

Being one of the tourist municipality and in view of the ASEAN integration where food

safety and quality becomes a major concern, there is a need to subject all small food

processors and handlers in the municipality with the skills of processing, proper food

handling, packaging, labelling and good manufacturing practices. This training will enable

them to produce market competent local food products to meet the demand of tourist visitors

and the community populace.

In result, 44 participants composed of

39 rural women, two (2) extension

workers and three (3) youths venturing on

food processing responded to this

training.

Participants gratefully shared that the

training was very helpful in their endeavor

of processing a safe and quality products

for local and tourist consumption thereby

increasing their income. Also, they learned

how to properly price their processed

products to gain and prevent loss.

The overall activity had an average rating of 4.11 equivalent to Very Satisfactory. Some of

their suggested trainings for the future were baking, food preservation, organic farming and

meat processing. The resource persons obtained the following ratings:

Ms. Esther Botangen – 4.09 – Very Satisfactory

Ms. Jen Darcio – 4.01 – Very Satisfactory

Ms. Cristine Esnara – 4.15 – Very Satisfactory

They were rated highest on their ability to answer questions, ability to manage time and

how they ended their topics.

A total cost of 74,277.00 was incurred for the success implementation of the training.

Return demonstration on rootcrops

processing



Enhancing Management, Productivity & Team Building for Agri-Office Managers of CAR-May

11-12, 2016 @ ATI-CAR, BSU La Trinidad, Benguet

The primary clientele of the ATI-RTCs are the Local Governemtn Unit Agricultural

Extension Workers (LGU-AEWs) composed of the agriculture office managers (Provincial

Agriculturists, Provincial Veterinarians, Municipal Agriculturists/Agricultural Officers) and

their technical personnel (Agricultural Technologists, Agriculturists).

Phased training programs are implemented by RTC-CAR separately for the managers and

the technical personnel with the premise that learning never ends, hence, the phased training

approach. With this approach, upscale training courses are regulary added to the “must”

training courses under each training program as the need arises. This training course is an

upscale training to update or refresh them and thereby keeping them functional.

The Resource Person Prof. Renato Jose Maria Molano of DLSU, Manila emphasized that

“To instill among the participants the importance of self-knowledge in their total formation and

development as they go through life as managers, we must put emphasis on their on their

individual gifts and skills. Organizations have to develop other aspects such as people skills and

social skills, spiritual nourishment, leadership and management abilities”.

This training was then completed by 41 extension workers from the Provincial and

Municipal Local Government Units of the region. Every participant was expected to

continuously revitalize their agricultural offices by cultivating proper values, developing

personal vision and mission, building camaraderie and heart-felt acceptance among the

organization personnel and by pursuing excellence, productivity and enthusiasm in service.

The training obtained an Excellent rating with an average of 4.738 for the Overall training

Performance. This was also reflected on the impressions and insights shared by the

participants:

o Creativity is something we can do (Mr. Delfin Rufino) o Inspiring resource person (Maria Medrana) o We are delighted to become a better LGU agriculture office managers (Marivic

Lagmay) o Our speaker exemplified to us the skill of relating to the participants/clients which

we can adopt in our work (Joan Agrong) The choice of resource person and instructional/presentation aids used were rated

highest with a rating of 4.670.

The journey to enhanced management, productivity and team

building



The lone Resource Person, Mr. Renato Molano was also rated Excellent with an average

of 4.738. He was rated highest on his ability to communicate ideas followed by the

effectiveness of methodologies used, quality and effectiveness of instructional aids used,

ability to arouse/sustain interest and on how he ended his topic. All of which with an average

of 4.76.

A total cost of P122, 499.00 was utilized for the success of this training.

RICE PROGRAM

Trainers' Training on Good Agricultural Practices for Rice with TESDA National Certification

(NC II) in Agricultural Crop Production for Rice AEWs in CAR (Batch 2)-May 3-6, 2016 @

Gladiola Hall, BSU La Trinidad, Benguet

The concept of product quality

includes the way in which the

products has been produced and

this process must be in

accordance with national and

international regulations on

environmental respect and

environmental related market

demand. Thus, the GAP was

formulated by DA to make our

products compliant to

international standards and

ensuring the quality and safety of

the product.

The AEWs assigned under the

Rice program, GAP focal persons

and other partner extension providers has to undergo Training of Trainers (TOT) to be

equipped and be capacitated on the basic information about the provision of the standards,

implementation mechanisms, principles and certification protocols of GAP. Moreover, these

AEWs will be undergoing the National Certificate II in partnership with TESDA

With this, 48 agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and SUC extension personnels in the

Cordillera were invited to attend this training. Participants have demonstrated that they have

the competencies as GAP advocates thus worth the NC II certification.

ATI-CAR Center Director Arlene Flores said that the NC II certification of the AEWs is a

part of the thrust to help professionalize the extension sector of the region.

Before being certified, however, they need to carry-out and pass four competencies

namely: perform nursery operation; plant crops; care and maintenance and harvest; and

postharvest operations. Dr. Aurea Calibaquib, an accredited assessor of TESDA Kalinga,

reiterated that the assessment process focus not just on the evaluation of knowledge, and

skills but also on the attitudes and work values of an individual in relation with the certain

units of competency.

The assessments were done through written examination, oral interview, and field

practicum that tested their competencies. For the field practicums, these were conducted at

Bodiweng Rice Terraces, Bineng, and BSU Organic farm.

Prior to the NC II assessment, they were adequately provided with related topics on GAP

during the first two days of the training. Significant topics discussed were on Philippine

Agriculture and ASEAN integration; global and regional forces driving food safety; food safety

Act 2013 and its regulation; Safety hazards for the commodities; 5 S in farming; salient

features of GAP and its guiding principles; and Philippine National Standard: Code of GAP for

Down the mountain for the actual implementation

of GAP Rice



Rice, GAP certification guidelines,

protocols, compliances and inspection

procedures and forms.

According to the participants, the

training is very relevant because they

learned more about GAP, food safety

and its supporting law.

Asked on how to share their learnings,

Mr. Daniel Daagdag of Tubo, Abra said

that these will be disseminated to the

farmers though MAFC meetings and he

plans to have a techno demo on this.

Mr. Brent Atew of OPAG-Benguet said

that even if there are no GAP guidelines,

it is still a basic rule to produce crop

without damaging the environment. “As

agricultural technicians, we should guide the farmers to follow agricultural principles based

on standards,” he added.

This was supported by Mr. Rony Carlos of Sablan, Benguet who articulated that the AEWs

play a big role in teaching farmers the systematic way to adopt GAP. With the ASEAN

integration, this standardized the quality of products so that these produce will also be

marketed to the other countries. This then challenge the AEWs to inform and teach the

farmers to go into GAP as food safety starts in the production aspect. He then voiced out that

local government units should be more supportive and if possible to subsidize funding for the

installation of GAP-required facilities like CRs and packing areas of the farm.

To date, five batches of TOT with TESDA NC II certification were already steered by the

ATI-CAR, two on high value crops, two on rice, and one on corn.

Technical Briefing on Rice Crop Manager (RCM) and ICT-Based Tools for Rice

In a joint meeting of DA-RFO-CAR and ATI-CAR in August 2015, the group agreed that

ATI-CAR will handle basic training on RCM use and RCM briefings both for AEWs, Local

Farmer Technicians and farmers.

For the month, the center conducted seven (7) batches of RCM as follows:

1. Batch 1-May 17,2016 @ Pidigan,Abra 2. Batch 2-May 18, 2016 @ Lagayan. Abra 3. Batch 3-May 19,2016 @ San Isidro, Abra 4. Batch 4-May 20,2016 @ Penarrubia, Abra 5. Batch 5-May 24,2016 @Villaviciosa, Abra 6. Batch 6-May 25,2016 @ Licuan-Baay, Abra 7. Batch 7-May 26,2016 @ Bucay, Abra

A total of 461 farmers, 16 LGU representatives and 16 AEWs from the seven (7)

municipalities of Abra were briefed on use the Rice Crop Manager as a tool that provides crop

and nutrient management advice customized to farming conditions and needs.

Asked about their learnings on the briefing, here are some of the sharing:

“Nalawagan kami iti daytoy panangusar iti RCM ket nabibiit gayam jay panaggenerate da

ti recommendation. Communication through the use of cellphone is also possible because we

don't need to go to the office but only we could send a text message and we have an answer

to our querries. Maituding nga "Makabagong Magsasaka" kami tatta ta mausar mi dagitoy

For a GAP advocate, it is not enough to have the knowledge, skill is important too!



naisuro kenyami. Ipannakkel tayo nga farmers tayo ta no awan ti agtal-talon awan ti makan ti

umili. Adda kwarta iti panagtalon sunga haan tayo ialeng-aleng ti trabaho tayo”. –shared by

Mr. Demetrio guinaban , Jr. of Dumayko Farmers Association

“Ammok nga agFacebook ngem daytoy inbingay da kenyatayo ket real life nga mausar tayo. Haan lang nga panag-selfie no di ket makatulong iti intay panagtalon. Dagiti ICT-based tools nga enda inbinsabinsa ket kasapulan tayo. Adda ka nga eTrading, eFarming, eLearning ket no maipanggep iti pagay ket nadumaduma ti resources kas kadagiti pinoyrice.com, knowledgebank.irri.org, daytoy RCM, ricedoctor, ken PhilRice Text Center. Inayon da pay daytoy eTrading nga kaunkuna nga mabalin nga intay ilako dagiti produkto tayo. Amin dagitoy ket kasapulan mi nga farmers ta uray adda kami ijay tal-talon ket mabalin nga agquestion kami. Salamat unay ta naibinsa-binsa dagitoy kenyami”. - shared by Ms. Marissa Giwagiw

RCM is a new approach to boost Rice production. Agyaman kami ta adda kayo nga immay nangibaga ken nangisuro kenyami maipanggep daytoy makunkuna nga Rice Crop Manager. Adda gayam ti kastoy nga wagas nga instant nga maaramid ti recommendation sunga nasiyaat unay ta Talaga nga kabarbaro kenyami daytoy nga estilo ti panagadal. –shared by Mr. Feleciano Bose

“Ti gobyerno tayo gayam ket haan na

nga bay-bay-an ti farmers sunga inaramat na dagitoy internet nga makonkona tapno

maiasedeg dagiti programa ti gobyerno kadatayo. Nangruna pay nga inkabil da iti internet daytoy panagmula ti pagay babaen iti panag-generate na iti recomendasyon para iti talon tayo. Dagiti facilitators ket naanus da nga nangisuro kadatayo iti osto nga wagas ti panag-anser iti questionnaire tapno ti recomendasyon ti RCM ket pudpudno”-shared by Ms. Marcela Castillo-retired Principal.

“Naawatak jay pannaka-explain na

daytoy nga RCM nga makunkuna. Daytoy gayam ket makatulong unay kenyatayo nga farmers tapno haan nga masayang jay kwarta tayo ta ngamin agbugaso tayo tapno pumigsa ti pagay tayo ngem adda gayam oras ti panagbugaso ken pangaplikar iti fertilizer. Jay naaramid nga recommendation ti RCM ijay bassit nga kinelleng nga tal-talonek ket makaapitak kano iti 75 nga sako ket dati-dati ti ap-apitek ket 23 enggana 25 lang nga sako ti maap-apit ko. Ipadas ko man nga suroten daytoy tapno maapit ko jay 75 nga sako base iti recomendasyon ti

RCM. Nagdakkel unay ti tulong na daytoy no bilang ta agpayso. Suroten tayo ti

inbaga ti RCM ta awan met ti maawan no suroten tayo daytoy. Pagyamanan unay ti ahensiya ti gobyerno nga immay nangiyeg iti daytoy nga programa kadatayo.” –shared by Daniel Pascual, Abang Farmers Irrigators Association President

Getting informed about Rice Crop Manager

Acquiring first hand information on RCM

Getting involved in the RCM



All the seven batches were rated very satisfactory. A total cost of P152, 105.00 was utilized for these seven RCM briefings.

ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PROGRAM

Training in support to Internal Control System (ICS-Phase 1) for Traditional Raisers Organic

Farmers Association (TROFA) of Bakun, Benguet –May 2-4, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

In order for a small holder group to qualify for the installation and corresponding

certification, there should be a single organic system plan for the group and that individual

group may not use certification independently. Likewise, similar production methods and

inputs are used on all farm plots in the group.

With this, Traditional Raisers Organic Farmers Association (TROFA) composed of 25

farmers of Bakun, Benguet took their first step towards Organic Agriculture third party

certification.

They were brought to the ATI-CAR Organic agriculture learning site set-up where they

observed and learn from the project.

Participants themselves testify that farmers today are more of the instant type, they don’t

think of who will eat their produce. That’s why, these training was an eye opener. There

learning will be their logistics in pursuing organic farming when they get home.

They are hoping that they will complete the Internal Control System (ICS) journey and

this could only be possible as long as every members will have that patience and sacrifice.

The overall activity obtained an average of 4.256 equivalent to Very Satisfactory.

Garnering the highest ratings are the following: instructional/presentation aids, training

facilities and services and accommodation facilities all with a rating of 4.450. Most of the

participants requested training on bookkeeping to be conducted for them in the future.

The Resource Person, Mr. Charlie Sagudan obtained a rating of 4.470 or Very Satisfactory.

He was rated highest on his ability to answer questions and ability to communicate ideas with

ratings of 4.790 and 4.660 respectively.

A total cost of P55,815.00 was utilized for the successful implementation of the activity.

Learning in a site on the standards of Organic Agriculture



CORN AND CASSAVA PROGRAM

Regional Training on Good Agricultural Practices in Cassava for the Cassava Farmer – Organizations and Associations in CAR-May 17-19, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

Cassava is another substitute for rice among marginal farmers in the uplands. However, one of the safety concerns in the consumption is the cyanide content found in the roots and leaves which is toxic to humans and animals.

The training on Good Agricultural Practices for cassava addresses the essential principles of food safety applicable to primary production through postharvest processing of cassava. It encompassed Good Hygienic Practices (GHP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) that will help minimize microbiological, chemical and physical hazards associated with all stages of production to postharvest processing.

The implementation of GAP compliance and certification in CAR in terms of advocacy and information dissemination is an immediate need and this has to be sustained ‘till the knowledge on GAP is far reaching the Cordillera farmers. Further, there is an immediate need for the farmers to understand the principles and certification protocol of the GAP before they are engage in the installation of the Internal Control System (ICS)

Responding to this training were 30 cassava farmers from the six provinces of the region. Aside from lectures, the participants were brought to Lily of the Valley Farm and to

Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center for a deeper appreciation of GAP.

Asked about their learnings: "I learned the requirements and processes on how to apply for GAP certification. Also, we

came to learn that BAPTC is supporting farmers on how they can trade their products in a fair price. A visit to the Lily of the Valley (LOV) Organic Farms is inspiring us to shift to organic farming like Mr. Jefferson Laruan, owner of LOV. Being an organic farmer means having healthy lifestyle and at the same time saving mother earth”. –Ms. Myrtle Bullan

"The BAPTC has full support to farmers for the sure market of their produce in higher price beneficial to them not the middle men. And at the Lily of the valley, let us practice organic farming to have an organic body. More patience in organic farming to succeed. Love your work and offer to God Almighty”.-Ms. Annabelle A. Ugalino.

As output of the training, the participants prepared their organizational action plan and compliance sustainability plan which will be implemented for the next six months to one year.

Overall, the activity obtained an average rating of 3.84 or Very Satisfactory. Garnering the highest rating of 3.92 were the course content/topics, choice of resource persons and training management team.

The five Resource Persons have the following ratings: Mr. Alfredo Edico – 4.18 – Very Satisfactory Dr. Arlene Sagayo – 4.29 – Very Satisfactory Mr. Jefferson Laruan – 4.32 – Very Satisfactory Mr. Ronan Soriano – 4.38 – Very Satisfactory Mr. Edwin Dicksen – 4.28 – Very Satisfactory

Learning the basics of GAP at the BAPTC and Learning Site



Their highest ratings were on the effectiveness of methodologies used, ability to answer questions, ability to manage time, ability to answer questions and how they ended the topics.

A total cost was of P101,931.00 was utilized for the successful implementation of this training.

4-H

2016 Regional Farm Youth (4H) Congress-May 3-4, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

Youth as catalysts need to be

continuously supported by providing them

with tangible and meaningful interventions.

Thus, this activity was organized to gather

4H club youths and their coordinators to

exchange information and analyze their

concerns, compete fairly, acquire

knowledge, foster comradeship and gain

self-esteem.

This was actively participated by 87 4H

members, 20 coordinators and Center staff.

Nine (9) competitions were conducted as

follows:

1)Quiz Bee;

2)Sweet Potato Processing and Packaging;

3) Duck Meat Cooking;

4) On-the-Spot Canvass Painting;

5) Photo Journalism;

6)Indigenous Plaque Making;

7) Extemporaneous Speaking;

8)Innovative Technology on Climate Change; and

9)Singing Contest

The last day was devoted to a lecture on

the role of the youth in nation-building in

partnership with the National Youth

Commission.

Asked about their insights for this

activity has raised the voices of the following

individuals:

“This is my first time to join the 4-H Congress and it is also my first time to join in sweet

potato cooking contest. I hope that this activity will be conducted again next time so I can join

once more and try my luck.” –Randy Baloc

“This is an avenue for learning and molding of future agripreneurs. I would like to thank the

ATI staff, the 4-H Coordinators for providing this avenue for our growth as young people, young

farmers and leaders.” Myllene Compalas

Further, the group elected their new set of regional officers for CY 2016-2018.Ms. Devine

Melecio of Mt. Province had the nod of the majority to be their Regional Federation President.

The overall activity had an average rating of 3.92 or Very Satisfactory. Trainings

suggested for the future were on public speaking, 4H club improvement, photography,

painting, leadership and others. For some improvements, participants are requesting for an

invitation of other judges from the different provinces to erase the notion on bias and also

time management to be properly observed.

The activity successfully ended with a total cost of P290,358.00.

FOLLOW THE GLEAM. The candle lightning accentuated the hopes and aspirations for a better life among the youth and 4-H supporters.

PARROTING THE NATURE. Participants of on-the-spot canvass painting stroke their brushes within their perspective.



Training on Leadership, Conducting meetings and Native Swine Production and Management-

May 5-6, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

4H as an organization should be braced with

sufficient inputs on leadership. Youth should be

encouraged to look at leadership in context to find

value in different attitudes and definitions of

leadership. Also, 4H as new emerging generation of

farmers should be aware of the management of

livestock, learn to appreciate and inculcate in their

mind the potential in livestock production specifically

on native swine. Hence, this training.

The resource person Ms. Joanne Aliping who was rated excellent encouraged the 4Hers

by saying, “Empowerment is realizing the true nature of our existence and the true power of our

mind that each of us equally has and are finding ways to utilize this power toward our dreams

and goals”.

Ms. Devine Melecio, the newly elected 2016 Regional 4H Club Federation President left

this statement to her fellow youths and to ATI, “I am counting still on you 4Hers to help me

manage the club. Also to ATI, we still need your guidance and help. I cannot promise anything

but I am soliciting your collective help to make things possible. There are ups and downs in a

club which is normal. But i want that when those times come, everyone is involved. Then, she

sang a song to remind everyone of who they are in the society.

"We are young

So let's set the world on fire

We can burn brighter,

Than the sun

Now I know that I'm not

All that you got

I guess that

I just thought maybe we could find new ways to fall apart

But our friends are back

So let's raise a cup

Cause I found someone to carry me home"

Overall, the activity had an average rating of 3.93 equivalent to Very Satisfactory.

Obtaining the highest were the course content, methodologies used and instructional aids all

with a rating of 4.06.

A total cost of P129, 370.00 for the success of this training.

Raising the voice of the youth



III. Expanding Partnerships in Advancing Excellence in Agriculture and

Fisheries Extension Delivery

A. Partnership Development

CAR LGU Agriculture Office Managers Association Meeting for 1st Semester-May 13, 2016

The CAR LGU Agriculture Office Managers are ATI-CARs active partners in the LGU in the

implementation of its programs, projects and activities. They are gathered annually to discuss

updates on the Extension services of the region with respect to their related concerns in their

own municipality. This time, 36 CAR LGU Agriculture Office Managers gathered for an

important discussions. Highlights of which were as follows:

Composition of the Provincial AFEN as identified by each province.

Major Programs, projects and activities and budget proposed for 2016 and 2017 by

the respective provinces.

Presentation of the YFFTPJ scholarship program.

Presentation of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists, Inc. (PAAInc.). PAAInc is

an organizations where Municipal Agriculturist and other AEWs can join. PAAInc is

another organization for MAs, aside from LEMCAP (League of Municipal and City

Agriculturists of the Philippines) and includes Agriculture Technicians and

Agricultural Extension Workers.

IV. Scaling-Up Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Innovations

ATI-CAR Center-Based Learning Site

The center expanded its center-based

learning site this year showcasing organic

technologies to its clients. This site

consists of a vermicomposting facility,

coffee nursery, organic vegetable

production and herbal plants. The

bamboos installed intended for vertical

gardening were already planted. Also,

labels indicating the scientific name and

uses of the herbal plants were placed.

This center-based Learning Site continuous to be a show window of organic agriculture

technologies for everyone.



V. Strengthening Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Stakeholders Capacity in

Climate Change Adaptations and Readiness

A. Capacity Building Activities

Capability activities on climate change adaptation and mitigation resources were targeted this year to be conducted on June and September.

B. Tree for Life, Food for Life Project

In participation of the National Greening Program, the center also has targeted two (2)

tree planting activities to be conducted this June and September.

VI. Improving Enabling Environment and Quality Governance

Planning

Planning activities were already accomplished in January.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Monitoring and Report Submission.

A total of 20 TACRs for the month were submitted on time to Central Office. Also monthly

physical and narrative reports were constantly submitted.

As part of the center’s transparency seal, online posting of center’s accomplishments for

the month of May was done in coordination with the Information Services Section.

Staff Development: Center Level

Training Workshop on Writing Non-conformity Findings, Root Cause analysis,

Corrective/Preventive Action-May 10-11, 2016 @ ATI-CAR

ATI-CAR is one among the seven (7) Regional Training Centers for ISO 9001:2008 expansion by the ATI Central Office. As such the ISO Core team, the Document Control Center (DCC) and Internal Quality Audit (IQA) team were created.

One common concern of the IQA team was

the lack of skills in writing their audit findings.

Likewise, the staff/auditees/process owners

expressed their need to be trained on root cause

analysis and in writing the corrective and

preventive actions to the Request for Action and

Corrective Action Reports issued to them. Thus,

the staff expressed their need to have this

training.

Ms. Siloy, IQA member and the Center DCC, Mr Buli-e reviewing the document registration process



One common realization of staff on this training, ‘the

purpose in declaring a non-conformity (NC) is to establish

a verifiable evidence of a problem discovered and to

provide a clear and detailed information so that the

problem is understandable and therefore can be

corrected. Thus, findings should be clearly stated for the

auditees to easily understand and for the auditor to easily

verify the corrections made.’

Staff Development: Individual Non-Degree Course Completed by ATI-CAR Staff

a). Training-Workshop on Gender Equality, Gender Analysis and HGDG for Project Development,

Implementation and Monitoring and Evaluation

This training was completed by the Center’s GAD focal Ms. Jam Balingan and alternate

focal Ms. Cristine Esnara conducted by the Planning and Policy Division. In her report, Ms.

Balingan stated that this training was very timely and a great help in the implementation of

GAD interventions in the region. They are then expected to apply the tools of gender analysis

in planning of programs, projects and activities (PPAs), utilize the ATI finalized customized

HGDG checklist to determining if the PPAs are gender sensitive or gender responsive and be

a GAD champion in the region.

b). Training on Instructional Design for e-Learning

Ms. Jaila Sagpa-ey and Mr. Adrian Chris Velasco, both Information Officers of the

Information Services attended this training with new knowledge and skills acquired in

developing quality online services. The development of online course is a journey and not

merely to write. In doing such, the content developers should make sure that the e-learners

will sustain their interest while learning the said online course. Also, the skills on writing

nevertheless were honed with the workshops undertaken.

Mr. Allan DG Fabella, explaining the fishbone diagram in the realization of the real root cause of a finding



Other Extension and Operations Support Activities

For the month, the following extension and support activities were implemented:

Activity Highlights Staff involved

Learning Site (LS)

Farmer Cooperator

Orientation

Two (2) farmers expressed their interest and willingness to share their technologies and experiences to co-farmers and other individuals. They were Mr. Andy Banatao, in-charge of LGU-Conner Breeding Center applying for Good Animal Husbandry LS and Mr. Joseph B. Eming, owner of the El Karis Farm of Conner, Apayao applying for Organic Agriculture LS

Charlie C. Sagudan Maribeth C. Malanna

Gawad Saka Technical Working Group Meeting

Discussion of processes in relation to Gawad Saka activities.

Charli C. Sagudan

2nd RIC Congress of

Sablan, Benguet

Mr. Cristino Balancio, Center’s RBO focal introduced team building activities to boost camaraderie and leadership of the RICs in Sablan, Benguet

Cristino E. Balancio

Table 3. SUMMARY of FUND DISBURSEMENT BY PROGRAM FUND

Program Fund Disbursement

PS 1,630,731.74

Regular 698,439.90 Rice 259,180.00 Organic Agriculture 85,714.00 HVCD 174,680.00 Corn and Cassava 46,173.00 Livestock 42,957.89 4-H Club Program 676,833.54 RBO 14,470.00 TOTAL 3,629,180.07

Prepared and submitted by:

CHERRY S. SINONG

PEO I

Date: June, 7 2016

Noted and Approved:

ARLENE L. FLORES, Ph.D.

Center Director

Documents

Highlights - Agricultural Training Institute...15. Bahay-Kubo 2.0 16. Green + Smart Engineering 17. ASEAN Free Trade: Are the Local Farmers Prepared? 18. Saving Water in Irrigated