monthly narrative report - ati.da.gov.ph

of 20 ATI-QF/PPD-31 Rev. 01 Effectivity Date: October 4, 2018

MONTHLY NARRATIVE REPORT December 2020

Center/Division: RTC-CAR

THEMATIC

PROGRAM ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Activity: Use of ICT Resources

▪ Maintained/updated the Center’s website and social media accounts (facebook,

twitter, instagram)

o 17 uploads with 3369 page views

o reached 6,496 individuals

▪ There were 31 queries responded throughout the month most of which were

about ATI UA, ATI online courses, vegetable pests and management, poultry

(chicken) pests and diseases.

30 clients provide

ATI-CAR joins the celebration of various

activities nationwide

Courtesy of call staff led by TCD Arlene Flores

to newly elected president Dr. Felipe Comila of

the Benguet State University- the host agency

of DA-ATI CAR

ATIng Kaalaman radio broadcast weekly winners posted at the ATI social

media account


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Activity: Delivery of SOA certificates, prizes, and other graduation

supplies (seeds, T-shirts)

Pictures:

SOA on RCEF and Inbred Rice Production Using PalayCheck System as a

Guide, December 10, 2020

Mr. Maximino R. Aromin, Information Officer III and Project Officer, Mr. Adrian Chris P.

Velasco, Information Officer II, and My. Jaypee Na-oy, Technical Support Staff, led the

delivery of SOA certificates, prizes, and other graduation supplies.

Each of the SOA graduates will receive a t-shirt and five (5) sachets of assorted lowland

vegetable seeds. The coordinators were instructed to take a picture during their delivery

and turn-over of the certificates, t-shirts, and seeds to the SOA graduates and upload

these at the SOA Kalinga FB group account.

Rizal, Kalinga

The coordinators Mr. John Mark Lumabi and Mr. Lester Sobrepeña and anchor, Mr.

Nasser Rey Juan received the Certificates of Completion for the graduates from Rizal,

Kalinga at the Rizal Municipal Hall at Barangay Liwan West, Rizal, Kalinga. The ATI-CAR

team also awarded the honorarium and Certificates of Appreciation as coordinators to

Mr. Lumabi and Mr. Sobrepeña, and as an anchor for Mr. Juan.

Tabuk City, Kalinga

The Tabuk City SOA Coordinators met with the ATI-CAR team at the TAMPCO Inn at

Appas, Tabuk City, Kalinga. During a short meeting, the coordinators were reminded

that there will be no face to face and mass graduation. Instead, the coordinators will

deliver the certificates, t-shirts, and seeds to the SOA graduates following their

respective barangays of assignment.

Aside from delivering the SOA graduation supplies, the ATI-CAR team also checked the

completeness of the SOA documents submitted by the SOA coordinators before paying

their respective honorarium. The coordinators also expressed their willingness to

facilitate any future SOA. Top 3 SOA graduates were given Urban Agriculture (UA)

starter kits plus a radio set each.

SOA coordinators from Rizal, Kalinga received

the training certificates, seeds, and t-shirts of

the SOA graduates from their municipality

Tabuk City SOA coordinators with the

ATI-CAR team reviewed and finalized the

SOA documents for submission

Participants from Barangays Bulo and Lacnog, Tabuk City, Kalinga with their certificates

Participants from Brgy. San Julian and Balong, Kalinga


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

SOA Hybrid Rice Production Using PalayCheck System as a Guide, December

11, 2020

The ATI-CAR tapped the Apayao State College (ASC) through its Extension Services Unit

as the overall SOA coordinator in coordination with the Municipal Agriculture Offices of

Flora and Pudtol. The ASC directly handled the coordination of participants in the

Municipality of Luna since they are based there. The ASC, with the Municipal Agriculture

Offices of Flora and Pudtol also expressed their willingness to participate in any

succeeding SOA. The same process was also observed in Apayao where the ATI-CAR

team went over the SOA documents submitted before releasing the payment of the

coordinators. There were 9 SOA graduates, three each from Pudtol, Flora, and ASC

covered areas who will receive a starter kit and a radio set as token for being the top 3

SOA graduates in their respective municipality.

A special case happened in Flora when Municipal Agriculturist Evelyn Cabulay invited

the ATI-CAR team to Barangay Bagutong supposedly to document the distribution of

certificates, seeds, and t-shirts. However, upon arrival of the group at the barangay hall,

the barangay officials and graduates already prepared the venue for a simple program.

Thus, following standard health protocols such as wearing of face masks, and physical

distancing, and under the supervision of barangay officials a short, impromptu, and

informal graduation program happened. There were 12 graduates in attendance. Also

present were barangay officials led by Barangay Captain Nestor Apostol.

Impression:

"When we were starting we had a lot of worries given the present pandemic but we did it. We were

very happy and we learned a lot about rice production. Specifically, I’ve learned much on how to

select the best varieties suited in our place. We were also taught of the proper application of

fertilizers. Thank you." – Ms. Virginia C. Echeverie, Farmer, Bagutong, Flora, Apayao

"We will never forget the lessons we learned here because it is all about our daily life, it is what we

do every day. I also learned new technologies and farming technologies I never encountered before

such as the proper classification of insect pests and their management. I am hopeful that through

the things I learned, there will be an increase in our yield." – Mr. Leonardo M. Medrano Jr.,

Farmer, Bagutong, Flora, Apayao

The impromptu SOA graduation at Barangay Bagutong, Flora, Apayao with 12

graduates in attendance

Participants of Brgy. Aninipan, Flora, Apayao during their graduation together with their SOA coordinators (face masks were removed for photo purposes only)


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Activity: Promotions in Various Media (Radio Broadcast)

ATIng Kaalaman Sa Agrikultura

Through the Mountain Province Broadcasting Corporation (MPBC) DZWT 540, the continuation of ATI-CAR airing to promote Urban Agriculture Technologies every Wednesday from 11:00 to 11:30 in the morning was undertaken. This month, one episode was aired for the ATIng Kaalaman sa Agrikultura radio broadcast. • The 20th episode of ATIng Kaalaman sa Agrikultura, focused on “E-Extension Program”.

This was discussed by Mr. Bongbong L. Buli-e, Media Production Specialist II of the

Agricultural Training Institute- Cordillera Administrative Region (ATI-CAR)

During the airing, co-anchor, Ms. Jaila S. Sagpa-ey, Information Officer II, announced the

winners from the last episode. The winners were Mr. Terry Sina-oy of Loakan, Itogon, Benguet,

Ms. Venus Abayyo of Lubo, Kibungan, Benguet, Mr. Alonzo Marlyne of Taba-ao, Kapangan,

Benguet, Ms. Mary Poclo of Ansagan, Tuba, Benguet, and Mr. Mcdowel Decano of Binga, Itogon,

Benguet.

Activity: Knowledge Center Management

Individuals served

Eleven (11) individuals were served through the provision of requested print materials at the library throughout the month.

Activity: Techno-Gabay Extension

Visit to Farmers' Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center Sablan Visit,

December 23, 2020

ATI-CAR team was accompanied by Ms. Rimalyn Benito.

During the visit, it was observed that FITS billboard displayed is visible in the area. The

FITS Center also allotted corner for the print materials.

Guest Speaker Mr. Bongbong L. Buli-e discussing on E-Extension

FITS billboard and print material corners in FITS Center Sablan


Magsasakang Siyentista (MS) Assessment in Kamog, Sablan, Benguet

Assessed MS was Mr. Saldivar G. Garambas. He is currently operating a farm (Green

Delights Farm) with an area of more than one (1) -hectare. His farm is well organized

with separate areas for tools, seeds, and has a board where he writes his farm activity

schedules. Crops planted included lowland vegetable production like squash, okra, and

bitter gourd and highland vegetables that include cabbage, pechay, celery and french

beans. Open field-papaya is also planted on seed bed mulch with a polyethylene plastic,

intercropped with chili.

He is also a member of the Session Groceries, DA’s KADIWA Program and Sablan

Organic Practitioners Association (SOPA), which also serves as his market outlet. Mr.

Garambas is also into etag processing, but in a small quantity and sessional depending

on the availability of pork to be processed.

MS Visit to MS Mr. Eugenio Cales in Bayabas, Sablan, Benguet

There were two (2) sites visited. One site has 0.5 hectare area where it is composed of

rice fields and some part are to be planted with sweet potato “camote” while awaiting

for the next rice cropping season. During the visit crops planted were rice, pineapple,

and banana.

The second site has an area of 1 hectare planted with fruit trees. Ube/Yam is to be

planted as under crop. He was advised to continue his Ube Production as it was his

commodity as MS.

Mr. Cales was provided with the Climate Information Service (CIS) fund support

regarding vermicomposting. His 1st composting site was established near the

residential house. At present, Mr. Cales serves as Barangay Kagawad.

MS Assessment to Mr. Saldivar

Garambas

MS Visit to MS Mr. Eugenio Cales


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Activity: Arrange RCEF Information Caravan through Radio

Broadcast

Lamut and Lagawe, Ifugao, December 9, 2020

The ATI-CAR team sought the assistance of the Lamut Municipal Agriculture Office in

arranging the said broadcast. Mr. Rolly Dulnuan, the OIC-MAO, accompanied the group

to the Office of Municipal Administrator, Mr. Carlito Bata. Mr. Bata welcomed the group

and after an orientation on the proposed SOA broadcast, approved the same and

referred the team to the community radio station staff. DJ Lhaine of the DWLT 105.3

Lamut FM accommodated the ATI-CAR group and after a briefing regarding the

Program the group agreed on a broadcast schedule which will be aired on December

14-18, 2020 at 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

The team considered seeking the assistance of APA Catherine Buenaventura for the

RCEF broadcast in Lagawe. The team met with Ms. Buenaventura at her farm in

Barangay Bolog, Kiangan, Ifugao and after being oriented regarding the mechanics of

the broadcast she agreed to bring the broadcast materials to the Lagawe community

radio station (Radyo Kiphodan 99.1 Lagawe, Ifugao). She also volunteered to speak to

the station manager regarding the program. Finally, the RCEF radio broadcast will be

aired through Radyo Kiphodan 99.1 at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM from December 14-18,

2020 with DJ Ton as host.

Alfonso Lista, Ifugao, December 10, 2020

The ATI-CAR team went to the Alfonso Lista Municipal Agriculture Office for a courtesy

meeting and an orientation regarding the program. Afterwards, Mr. Geraldo Valdez of

the Municipal Agriculture Office accompanied the group at the Alfonso Lista

community radio station (DWAL 99.1 MHz FM). DJ Amiga of DAWL 99.1 welcomed the

team for the finalization of the initial agreements made earlier through a series of

phone calls. Thus, for Alfonso Lista, the RCEF broadcasts will be aired on December 14-

18, 2020 at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. As a prelude to the broadcast, DJ Amiga invited Mr.

Maximino R. Aromin Jr. to promote and announce the broadcast live on air.

Mr. Maximino R. Aromin, Jr. presenting the overview of the RCEF Information Caravan through

radio broadcast to Lamut Municipal Administrator Carlito Bata (left photo) providing the details

of the radio broadcast to DJ Lhaine ( right photo) of the DWLT 105.3 Lamut FM

Ifugao Assistant Provincial Agriculturist

Catherine V. Buenaventura having a briefing

on the RCEF radio broadcast for Lagawe

Mr. Aromin meeting with DJ Amiga of the

DWAL 99.1 radio station in Alfonso Lista


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Title: Digital Farmers Program (DFP) 101, Aspulan Hall, ATI CAR,

December 5, 2020 Pictures:

The Digital Farmers Program (DFP) is a project between the Agricultural Training

Institute (DA-ATI) and SMART Communications, Inc., which consists of a ladderized

approach in teaching farmers with basic digital tools and technologies, particularly

social media. The DFP aims to encourage farmers to utilize smartphones, the internet,

Agri-apps, and social marketing in boosting their farming productivity. Specifically, it

is intended that the participants may be able to describe how they can use digital tools

and technologies to help them in their daily lives and farming practices; identify the

parts, functions, and uses of the smartphone; access the internet and perform tasks and

functions on using the internet; identify social media apps and agri-apps that can help

them in their farming practices; and explain internet safety and enumerate tips on how

they can protect themselves from possible scams.

Participants were Magsasaka Siyentista and Learning Sites for Agriculture from Baguio

City and Benguet. However, not all participants were able to attend the activity on

December 5. As a strategy, one-on-one coaching was be conducted for those who were

not able to attend the activity.

On December 23, 2020, one-on-one coaching was provided to one young farmer in

Tuba, Benguet. He is already adept in using the smartphone and its applications like

the different social media platform so the discussion focused on how and why the DFP

is being conducted, rule of the farmer and the youth in digital marketing, and how DFP

will help farmers immerse themselves to the use of the new technologies in

farming/marketing.

There were 15 participants to the activity.

Impressions:

“I do not expect that the event we will be attending with my father will be like this as I just

learned it when we arrived here. Thank you for the additional knowledge imparted in me.

I already knew some of the topics but this increase my skills on how to take good photos.

Also, this became our bonding with my dad.” Stephanie Abanag, Lucnab, Baguio City

“I appreciate this activity-this training - the use of new technology like the use of

smartphone for young people to appreciate farming. I was able to cope up with the topics

even if the duration is short. Thank you ATI-CAR.” Nicasio Wales, Bokod, Benguet

Mother and

daughter tandem-

daughter assisting

her mother on the

use of the apps

Young farmer actively

participating in the

training

One on one coaching

for Mr. Abad

Young farmer taking photo of

his father as part of the

activity on how to take good

photos


Enhancing

Access to AFE

Knowledge

Products and

Services

Activity: Information Caravan on RCEF (Batch 3 and 4) thru Radio

Broadcast

This radio broadcast on the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RECF) was conducted as a replacement of the targeted Information Caravan in Ifugao since face to face interaction or gathering large crowd is no longer allowed as a result of the pandemic. Partner agencies were requested to make a recorded information about the RCEF support component they are handling particularly on how to avail of it and the status of their implementation. There were 5 episodes in the broadcast. Episode 1 was a background of Rice Tariffication Law (RTL); episode 2 was about the Benefits we can get in RTL and RCEF and reasons why we are not rice self-sufficient; episode 3 was about Seed Component; topic for episode 4 was on Mechanization and Credit and episode 5 discussed about the Extension Component of RCEF. Through the DWLT 105.3 Lamut FM in Lamut and Radyo Kiphodan 99.1 Lagawe, Ifugao

in Lagawe, the airing was aired from 1:00 to 2:00PM starting December 11, 2020. Both

Lamut and Lagawe experienced a power interruption, so they were not able to play the

second episode, so the extension for 1 day. For Alfonso Lista, Ifugao, the DWAL 99.1

MHz FM aired the program from 11:00-12:00 noon.

A text promo was played as a way for the Center to encourage listeners to listen

intently. Those who will participate in the promo will be the ones to be reported as

participants of the supposed info caravan. Winners will receive a bush hat, long-sleeved

field shirt, boots, mugs and umbrella. Five winners per municipality was targeted to be

drawn per episode. However, only 14 texters participated in the text-promo during the

entire period and they were winners. According to the DJs, people in Ifugao are not fond

in participating in text promos, they just want to listen.


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Title: Coaching on Urban Agriculture/Home Gardening

Picture:

Two (2) batches of face-to-face coaching on Urban Agriculture/ Home Gardening was

conducted in Itogon, Benguet under the Regular Program. One coaching was conducted

in Tuding, Itogon, Benguet participated by 4 AEWs, 1 LGU representative, 7 students,

and 28 urban dwellers on December 15, 2020 where activity was funded by the Local

Government Unit (LGU) and technical support thru starter kits was provided by ATI-

CAR as its counterpart. The other batch of coaching was conducted on Decemebr 18,

2020 in Barangay Hall, Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet participated by 30 farmers and 20

urban dwellers. This was funded by the Tinongdan Indigenous People’s Organization

(TINPO) and technical support thru starter kits was provided by ATI-CAR as its

counterpart. Resource person was Mr. Berto O. Bayeng, Agriculturist II, LGU-Itogon.

Generally, this training/coaching intervention aimed to let the participants establish

their urban agriculture ventures for their household consumption. Specifically, the

participants shall be able to describe the urban agriculture production strategies and

the applicable technologies, explain the production practices of their chosen vegetables

and/or animals to raise and explain 5S, food safety, crop programming and records

keeping as applies to urban agriculture.

Impressions:

"I thank you for this opportunity especially in this time of pandemic. Going to the market is getting

harder due to insecurities being brought by the COVID-19. With this training, we are lucky to learn

that even a little space in our home can be a place for planting using containers, recycles at that.

So in behalf of our co-participants, thank you LGU-Itogon for this activity and also to ATI-CAR for

approving the requests of us residents of Itogon. Thank you for the knowledge and the kits you

have given to us as it will be used in our start-up kit for producing our own food organically".

Vivian C. Masgey, Utility Worker, Ucab, Itogon, Benguet

"We wish to express our happiness and gratitude with this activity for we gained much knowledge

and ideas to create strategies on how to economize available resources, materials, and spaces to

sustain the productivity of food for family income and consumption. We hope more from ATI-CAR

to extend their services and programs in supporting us with the technologies that may help to

sustain our living amidst the prevailing pandemic. Thank you very much." - Mr. Francisco C.

Maingpes, Farmer, Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet

Mr. Berto Bayeng of LGU-Itogon discussing the use and importance of composting in farming

Brgy. Kagawad Committee on Agriculture Navaro Taynan and Mr. Berto Bayeng of MAO-Itogon handing the starter kits to the participants

Mr. Norberto Pacio, President of TINPO delivering his opening remark

Participants on registration


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Title: Farmer Scientists Training Program (FSTP) Phase III

Picture:

Based from the National Farmer-Scientists RDE Training Program (FSTP) Manual of Operation and

Management, Farmer Scientists Training Program (FSTP) Phase II graduates are required to undergo a 2-

day refresher course conducted by the UPLB-CA Monitoring team to ensure that they are now capable to

conduct the farmer-to farmer training before conducting Phase III. By sharing, they will serve as the

resource persons to discuss specific topics in corn-based production system as they experienced in Phase

I. Thus, the 2-day refresher course training for Phase III implementation was conducted on January 22-23,

2020 in Luna, Apayao. The activity aimed to prepare the FSTP Phase II farmer-scientist (FS) graduates for

FSTP Phase III implementation at the barangay level, train a teaching team and formulate the Phase III

action plan for implementation by the FS and facilitated by the LGUs.

Generally, FSTP Phase III is intended to let the FSTP Phase II farmer-scientist (FS) graduates share their expertise by teaching untrained fellow farmers on how to generate and develop farming technologies based on their Phase I and II experiences. This program emphasizes sustainable farming system, together with crops and livestock production to increase the farmers' income. FSTP Phase III in Apayao was conducted in two sites:

1. FARMER SCIENTISTS TRAINING PROGRAM (FSTP) PHASE III IN SAN SEBASTIAN, LUNA, APAYAO

The season-long training was conducted from January 22, 2020 to October 29, 2020. The duration was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic where restrictions were imposed nationwide that included assembling people. For this site, there were eight (8) FSTP Phase II farmer-scientist graduates who served as resource persons that taught 28 farmer-participants.

2. FARMER SCIENTISTS TRAINING PROGRAM (FSTP) PHASE III IN SAN FRANCISCO, LUNA, APAYAO

Completed by 91 farmer-participants, the training was conducted from January 22, 2020 to

October 22, 2020. Nine (9) FSTP Phase II farmer-scientist graduates served as resource person in

this site.

Thus, for the FSTP Phase III in Apayao, 17 farmer-scientists will graduate for the Phase III.

Impressions:

“Thank you for the conduct of this FSTP phase III where I gained additional knowledge on the production of corn and

some vegetables. We were able to learn different treatments of soil in our trial on the land preparation and the proper

lay-out of our farm. To our co-participants, these knowledge we gained today, we should apply it so that not only will we

increase our production yield but will also help no sustain the needed elements of our crops from the soil with proper

composting and others. Thank you for the support and more power.” Jocelyn Perdido, farmer of San Francisco, Luna,

Apayao

Participants on postharvest data recording Participants on labelling and lay outing of parameters

Our partners from the University of the Philippines Los Baňos (UPLB) Mr. Augustus Franco Jamias and Mr. Mark Anthony Parducho together with Mrs. Annabel Ayson and Ms. Catrina Pachico of the MLGU-OMAG facilitated the launching of FSTP Phase 3 conducted at San Francisco barangay hall, San Francisco, Luna, Apayao

A participant monitoring/gathering some of the needed data on the growth stage of corn plants

The Farmer participants during the lay-outing and Land preparation of experimental trials with different treatments at Barangay San Sebastian, Luna, Apayao


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Title: Training of Trainers on Modernized Production of High Quality Inbred Rice

and Seeds, and Farm Mechanization, TAMPCO Inn and Training Center, December 4-16,

2020

Picture:

The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), crafted the RCEF Rice Extension Services Program

(RESP) that aims to enhance the capability of Rice Fund beneficiaries on modernized inbred

rice and seed production and other relevant skills for improved competitiveness and

income. The RCEF RESP has three (3) major components such as Project 1: Design and

Delivery of Training Programs, Enterprise Development Assistance and Communication

Support Services; Project 2: Development of Farm Schools; and Project 3: Implementation

of a Training Scholarship Scheme. In line with the RCEF RESP Project 1, ATI must conduct

a series of Regional Training of Trainers to the selected priority provinces of RCEF (Kalinga

and Ifugao), hence, training on modernized production of high quality inbred rice and seeds

and farm mechanization was conducted.

This 12-day activity generally aimed to successfully implement the Modified Season-Long

Farmer Field School on the Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice Seeds and heighten the

sense of mission to help the farmers become competitive through RCEF.

Actively completed by 30 farmers in Kalinga, these graduates will be tapped as trainers and

facilitators of farm schools accredited by ATI-CAR and TESDA as providers of the RCEF

Farmers Field School in Kalinga.

Impressions:

"Thank you to the ATI and farm school administrators for making this training possible. All

the lessons taught to me for four years as an agriculture student was summarized in this 12-

days training. Through the Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSAs), we will see to it that the

knowledge and skills imparted to us will not just stay in the corners of this hall. But, this will

also be delivered to our farmers in order to help them improve their farming practices." -

Cristina A. Dumayag, Farmer, Lucog, Tabuk City, Kalinga

"We can be likened to a palay seed wherein we believe that we were chosen as the right variety

for this training. Our speakers served as our fertilizers who supplemented our deficiencies and

today, we were seeded with knowledge and lessons. Thank you for the privilege and

opportunity to learn and meet this family. Rest assured that when we step out, all the

technologies imparted will not only be for us but will also be conveyed to our farmers." - Dante

C. Asyong, Farmer, Bulo, Tabuk City, Kalinga

After lecture discussions, trainees were immersed to AESA and crop cut hands-on

activities in the field

In collaboration with the Bacayan's Farm, actual exercises on crop establishment

and farm machinery operations were conducted


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Title: Kapatid Agri Mentor Me Program (KAMMP) Online, October

27- December 17, 2020

Picture:

Kapatid Agri Mentor Me Program (KAMMP) is a program of the Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) or commonly known as Go Negosyo. It aims to nurture and sustain agri-business in the country through Coaching and Mentoring. Industry practitioners served as mentors/coaches that provide guidance and assistance to agricultural cooperatives or associations, and agri enterprises by sharing learnings from their experiences.

With the COVID-19 pandemic upending lives and businesses, the KAMMP becomes more relevant and

necessary. Therefore, the KAMMP Online was developed as the practical delivery mechanism for the

same mentorship modules to be utilized to propel agripreneurs to survive and flourish amidst the

setbacks caused by the pandemic. Mentors during the online activity were Mr. Michael Caballes, Bukid

Amara Owner, Mr. Ruben Lanot II, Business Owner, Ms. Leslie Ann Cara, Instructor I of Rizal

Technological University, Atty. Sharon Millan, Partner of Millan and Uy Accounting and Jalbuna,

Cataluna, & Nunez Law Corporation, Mr. Ranilo Maderazo, Project Coordinator and Implementer of

Halamanan ng Buhay, Ms. Christine Abellon,, Café Maleng-ag Owner, Atty. Ann Cristine Sagay, Ibarra-

Sagay Law Office, Mr. Wilfredo Gagarin, HG Business Consulting Inc., and Mr. Marvin P. Adolfo, Vice

Chairman - Coco Central Producers Cooperative and Board Secretary - DualTech Training Center

Foundation, Inc.,

Output during the online training was Individual or group business plans/business improvement

plans. There were Special Awards (Best Presenter and Best in Attendance) given to the graduates

during the virtual graduation. This was actively participated by 31 agripreneurs, youth, agri

enterprises, cooperative/association members.

Impression:

"Thank you for this partnership program between the DA and Go Negosyo. Let me just share my key takings

of this training. First of all, this training gave us hope amidst this pandemic which turned everything topsy-

turvy. This training is not just about saving businesses but also saving lives because of the stress brought

about by the pandemic. With this seminar, our attention is diverted away from the pandemic and it gave us

something to look forward to everyday - online sessions, activities, and virtual meeting with co-mentees.

Secondly, bayanihan. It is nice to know that someone out there (i.e. Go Negosyo and DA) is thinking of your

welfare, most especially us agricultural MSMEs and we thank you for that. Lastly, friendship and network.

Through this training, we have met other people with the same business, with the same situation who we

can relate to and learn from. I wish to thank also the Tres Marias of this KAMMP Online – Ms Vicky, Ms.

Jane, and Ms. MJ. Thank you very much." Hector Jr. Dominguez, Rabbit Farmer / Engineer from La

Trinidad, Benguet

A crowd shot of the mentees, facilitators, DA staff and Go Negosyo staff during the virtual graduation on December 17, 2020

A participant sharing her learning insight with the activity


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Activity: ATIng Gulayan Harvest Festival, ATI-CAR, BSU Compound, La Trinidad,

Benguet, December 10-11, 2020

Picture:

ATI has continuously supported and promoted the implementation of the Urban Agriculture

Program (UAP) in the metropolis and cities of the different regions in the country. This is in

support to the “Plant, Plant, Plant Program” of the DA. One concrete show of support to this

program was the establishment of Urban Agriculture demonstration set up in the Regional

Training Centers (RTCs).

ATI-CAR was able to enhance the Learning Site for Agriculture – Urban Agriculture (ATI-CAR

LSA-UA) where applicable technologies for urban areas are showcased. These include vermi-

composting, quail egg production, vegetable gardening, and herbal plant production among

others.

The harvest festival was conducted to showcase the different technologies used in setting up

ATIng Gulayan and transform ATI grounds into edible landscape models. During the Field

Walk and Harvesting, participants were guided to the ATI-CAR LSA- UA to observe and

interact with ATI-CAR staff. It was followed by a technology sharing where useful

technologies supportive to UAP will be shared. Resource persons were Mr. Dan A. Saclangan,

Owner of Living Gifts Nursery where he discussed about his topic on “Cactus Propagation and

Succulent Production”. Another resource person was Mr. Romeo Casilla, Owner of Miners

Garden who also shared on “Probiotics Farming”.

Opening Remarks of Mr. Charlie C. Sagudan, OIC-TCSI:

"Thank you so much for giving in for our invitations and of course to significantly emphasize

your abled partnership. Thanks to Ma’am Arlene for spearheading these kinds of modalities.

She's the one who instigated the relay coaching and coaching activities. If you have listened to

the international conference sponsored by PhilEastNet, this is one of the unique practices in our

agency. We are a mountainous region, unfortunately, we cannot reach our clients through zoom,

text through emails. The reason why this is a challenge for ATI, we said we should make a

modality that would make us physically part of the development so this is it.

We are here to help you along with our Mandate. We also understand that aside from the starter

kits that we have given you, there are also other LGU's / agency who provide the same starter

kits (seeds). But, hopefully, to give meaning and purpose to the seeds that were given to you,

please plant and nurture them. So again, to the working committees and staff of ATI, thank you

so much for your support and cooperation and to our wonderful partners in implementing this

very well activity. On behalf of these 50 strong staff of ATI-CAR. Thank you very much!"

Mr. Charlie Sagudan explaining the purpose and set up of the quail, rabbit and vermicompost area

Mr. Dan Saclangan sharing the different types of cactus, proper handling and management for a successful propagation of succulents in support to Urban Agriculture

Mr. Romeo Casilla sharing his topic “Probiotics in Agriculture”

TCD Arlene L. Flores giving her message to the activity


Message from TCD Arlene L. Flores:

"We need to go back to the basics, no matter what. Even with the pandemic, people need to feed

themselves. So, we who are in the Agriculture Section, are responsible for making food secure

and we don't remain as producers but, we have to go through the value chain. The production,

processing, marketing, consumption, and diversification. And lastly, our partners in the local

government units. Eventually, you will take charge of the agriculture and extension modalities

that we have in your localities. You will be the implementers in the field. We will still be working

with you. Our responsibility is that we will make sure you are always ready for that. So, good

luck to all of us. Let us hope for the best. We hope that the government is doing right towards

making sure food security. There is one article that I read and I quote ‘Without food security,

without food, there's war.’ Good luck to all of us and let us have a Merry Christmas and Happy

New Year."

The activity also included the awarding ceremony for the Best Urban Agriculture/Home

Gardens among the recipients of the starter kits distributed. It was a way to recognize

dedicated partners for their contribution to UAP.

Freshly harvested organic vegetables from the ATI-CAR learning site were sold during the activity

Awarding of Certificate of Appreciation and cash incentives to the Municipal and Barangay Coordinators and Home Garden winners


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Title: Training Course on System of Rice Intensification (SRI) for Farmers,

TAMPCO Inn and Training Center, Tabuk City, Kalinga, November 4-6, 2020

Picture:

Amidst the challenges that the Philippine Rice Industry sector is currently facing,

the Department of Agriculture (DA) is continuously offering various approaches,

programs, and technologies as option to farmers while coping-up with the current

situation. One of the approaches being revived by DA is the System of Rice

Intensification (SRI), a climate and environment-friendly approach in cultivating

rice.

This three-day training was a proposal requested by LGU-Tabuk City, Kalinga. SRI

is a set of principles for rice production based on use of “less water, fertile soil,

healthier plants, greater root growth and the nurturing of soil microbial abundance

and diversity”. With this holistic value chain approach, the farmers are apt to

produce high quality, safe, affordable, and healthy organic SRI rice while

protecting, conserving, and restoring biodiversity in the farm ecosystem at the

same time positively benefitting the farmers.

Completed by 20 farmers, it was generally aimed that after the training, the

knowledge and skills of the farmers shall be enhance and acquaint them on SRI.

Resource person was Ms. Marcelina V. Saquing, Senior Agriculturist, Office of the

City Agricultural Services (OCAS), Tabuk City, Kalinga. The course utilized

combination of participatory lecture discussions, video showing, field visit/ survey

structured learning exercises and workshops/ practicum sessions. Visual aids and

print materials were also provided.

Impression:

"I appreciate the lecture and workshops during the activity. Updated my knowledge

about rice farming. It gave me more understanding about the financial matters by

computing accurately the cost-yields on the farm." - Micah Joy Balbuena

Illustration on how to break seed dormancy by priming Participants with their hands-on sowing

seeds in seed bed

Participants transplanting seedlings of rice in the field

Participants watching the video presentation and doing workshop on computation for workshop on cost-yield analysis for rice


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Activity: Field Validation Conducted

Picture:

Validation of the applicants for the Corn-Based Village Learning Site, Barangay Busilac, Alfonso

Lista, Ifugao, December 9, 2020

The Village Learning Site is basically a Community Learning Site that comprise at least 5-6 farm

families with common interest and willing to impart farming technologies, practices and values that

is worthy of emulation. Interested cooperators/recipients validated were Mr. Sanny M. Daguio, Mr.

Jovito R. Abad, Mr. Dexter Jan G. Daguio, Ms. Raquel A. Malitod, and Mr. Saldy B. Pilar.

Total land area validated for the Corn-Based Village Learning Site modality was approximately 20

hectares and with 15 hectares as expansion if the project needs/requires additional area. The site

is currently planted with various commodities like corn as the main crop, banana, cassava, bulb

onions and fish culture. The area is accessible and could be reached by any type of vehicle around

10-15 minutes ride from the center (Municipal Hall). So far, the existing structures present in the

site are Multi-purpose Drying Pavement (MDP), storage area and fishpond.

The technology being employed by the farmers is Packaged of Technology (POT) on Corn

Production. As regards the irrigation for the corn farms, the farmers are still dependent of rain.

However, there is an existing creek as source of irrigation water for the other crops. The area could

be further developed and utilized as a model farm where various technologies on corn, corn-based,

diversified/integrated farming systems could be showcased. The LGU-OMAg staff are willing to

assist the establishment of the Village Learning Site and extend necessary assistance to the

cooperators.

Problems/Issues determined and recommendations noted were:

PROBLEM/ISSUE RECOMMENDATION

1. Lack of irrigation system, equipment like tractor and post-harvest facilities.

2. Lack of updated technologies from production to

post-production.

3. The farm road leading to the site is not concreted. However, the barangay road is cemented.

1. Construction/installation of either solar irrigation power or shallow tube well with accessories, provision of small tractor, etc.

2. The need to conduct seminars/trainings on production to post-production technologies/ practices for the cooperators/recipients.

3. Allot funds for concreting of the farm road if funds permit or propose for farm-to-market road.

The validation was led by Mr. Edwin C. Dicksen, Corn and Cassava focal person of the ATI-CAR.

Field validation conducted in Alfonso Lista, Ifugao on December 9, 2020


Strengthening

Competitiveness

and Capacity of

the AF Sector

Activity: Delivery of cheque to the Recipients of the Village Learning Site in Abra cum

Signing of Memorandum of Agreement, Picture:

Abra is one of the pioneer areas for the Village Learning Site intervention specifically in the municipality of Pidigan. Partnership

with the office of the municipal agriculture was strengthened right

from the start of the program. Identification of recipients was

thoroughly scrutinized by the Office of the Municipal Agriculture

(OMAg) and ATI. The following were the recipients of the Village

Learning Site intervention;

1. Reynaldo Ancheta 2. Demetrio Billedo 3. Efren Billedo 4. Roberto Billedo 5. Magdalena Jimenez 6. Richard Pisquesa

The recipients were granted an amount of 290,000.00 each to fund

the establishment of their complementing projects and they signed

the Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA) with MA-Perpetua Ancheta

and ATI as witnesses. One recipient was not able to appear because

he was under home quarantine.

The ATI staff explained the roles and responsibilities of both parties prior to signing the MOA. Action needed shall be constant monitoring the project implementation

Group photo with the recipients

Mr. Edwin C. Dickesn explaining the roles and responsibilities of both parties


Expanded

Partnerships

in Advancing

Excellence in

AFE Delivery

Activity: RAFEN

Meeting Conducted

CAR Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Network (CAR-RAFEN) Meeting

The meeting was presided by TCD Arlene L. Flores. There was a brief rundown of the programs with extension component where ATI-CAR presented its

coaching activity.

One agenda discussed was on how to proceed with training and extension activities in 2021-2022. Everyone was aware of the “Mandanas Ruling” and there

was uncertainty on how to undertake extension service by then. Briefly, the “Mandanas Ruling” was talked about, that by 2022, extension service of the national

agencies will be fully transferred to the LGUs complete with budget. Conduct of meetings may be restricted still, so that RAFEN meetings may have to be

conducted online (through Zoom or Google Meet).

Agreements made were to submit all 2020 Extension Service Accomplishments to the ATI-CAR through the e-mail address. Sharing of extension strategies

given the COVID-19 problem will be done among the members of the network. Harmonization and synchronization of extension interventions will be done

with the complementation as end goal. Regional Executive Director (RED) Cameron P. Odsey will take up with the Secretary the existence of two extension

bodies in DA-AFEN and CORRDEN – and shall feedback on the matter in the next meeting.

Activity: Meetings/

Consultations

Facilitated/

Conducted With

Partners

Harmonization Meeting among DA-CAR Family Members

The meeting was called for training and extension matters in CAR amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were one representative per office/banner program namely: ATI-CAR, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-CAR),Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), National Meat Inspection Services (NMIS), Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), Regional Field Office (DA-RFO), Rice, Corn and Cassava, HVCDP, Livestock, Organic Agriculture, Urban Agriculture, Institutional Development, Regional Integrated Agricultural Research Center (RIARC), Information Service, RED Cameron P. Odsey, 2 Regional Training Directors (RTDs) and 3 Division Heads.

DA-CAR RED Cameron P. Odsey opened the meeting emphasizing the need to synchronize activities in response to the current pandemic that hit not only the

country but the world, guided by the Directives from the Secretary.

For the discussion points the DA-RFO PME Head presented the ALPAS COVID- 19 Program. These are Rice Resiliency Project (8.5B); Palay Procurement Fund

of the NFA (7B); Expanded SURE Aid Recovery Project (3B); Expanded Agriculture Insurance Project (3B); Social Amelioration for Farmers and Farm Workers

(3B); Up-scaling of “KADIWA ni Ani at Kita” (1B); Integrated Livestock and Corn Resiliency Project (1B); Expanded Small Ruminants and Poultry Project (1B);

Coconut-Based Diversification Project (1B); Fisheries Resiliency Project (1B); Revitalized Gulayan Project (1B); Urban Agriculture Project (500M); Corn for Food

Project (300M); and Information, Education, and Communication Project (200M) to come up with a total of PhP 31,000.000,000.00 supplemental budget.

BFAR will have to intensify its interventions for the fisherfolks, distribution of fingerlings, and provision of fishery related projects e.g. aquaponics. NMIS

presented their interventions pending provision of funds from the Livestock component. NMIS will also have to work/ negotiate with the LGU executives for

its projects as their consent is highly needed. Identified programs/ projects with possibility of joint interventions included the Special Area for Agricultural

Development (SAAD) Program, KAMMP, Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment in Regional

Expositions (ASPIRE) and the banner programs where the focal persons of both ATI-CAR and DA-RFO shall confer online.

DA-RFO in general, refocused bulk of their budget to Urban Agriculture, specifically procurement of seeds for distribution. All infrastructure, machinery and

equipment funds were refocused, training and extension activities discontinued. Livestock Program will continue to provide starter modules especially for

urban dwellers. ATI-CAR presented the Urban Agriculture interventions, including the interventions that were refocused. BFAR presented its intensified work

plan under the Fisheries Resiliency Project of the ALPAS- COVID 19 Program.


Improving

Enabling

Environment

and Quality of

Governance

Monitoring:

1. Status of the Action Plan Implementation

Action plans are prepared by every participant at the end of every training. This is to meet the

needed objectives of the training after the participants return to their offices or localities.

Under Rural Based Organization (RBO) Program, one training conducted last year was followed up

as to their action plan implementation. This was and RBO Development Program entitled “Training

on Tree Nursery Establishment and Management for RBOs of CAR” conducted on April 23-25, 2019.

The training aimed to let the participants establish or maintain reputable tree nurseries in their

respective farms. There were 19 action plans submitted during the training. On monitoring using

mobile and social media, internet connection and signal is not available in all areas, thus there was a

limitation of the data gathered. Of the 19 action plans, there were 7 plans that were fully

implemented and 2 have mentioned that they have not implemented their action plan because one

respondent had undergone spinal operation and the other respondent was hired as employee and

did not have time to accomplish the action plan.

2. Updates on the implementation of FFS

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) under the RCEF extension component is tasked to conduct Farmer Field School (FFS) in the form of scholarship grants to facilitate knowledge and skills/technology transfer; and to extend the availability of free training programs for local rice farmers. This is to be implemented through farm schools specifically certified LSA/SPA by the ATI.

As such, being partners in ensuring its efficient and effective implementation, ATI-CAR conducted the regular monitoring to assess the farm schools tapped to implement the FFS. Farm schools monitored included:

LSA OPERATOR NAME OF FARM VENUE

1. Michael W. Lumas-i Bacayans Farm Tannubong, Ipil, Tabuk City, Kalinga

2.Teodoro Kub-ao Teodoro Kub-ao Farm Namitpitan, Bulo, Tabuk City, Kalinga

3.Virginia Sacki Shavcer’s Farm San Juan, Tabuk City, Kalinga

4.Honorio Clemencia Clemencia’s Farm Purok 2, Balong, Tabuk City, Kalinga

5.Johnny O. Carillo Green Valley Farm Macutay, Rizal, Kalinga

6.Danilo B. Manuel Babalag Annayup Farm Babalag East, Rizal, Kalinga

7.Kenneth I. Jacob Jacob’s Farm Namnama, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao

Training Induction Program conducted by TESDA-Kalinga in Kub-ao Farm

Hands-on activity on double mulching in Green Valley Farm


Submitted by: Noted by: Approved by:

VILMA L. LUMBAS CHARLIE C. SAGUDAN ARLENE L. FLORES, PhD. PMESU Head OIC-TCS I/Asst. Division Chief Center Director/Division Chief Date: ______________ Date: ______________ Date:______________

Improving

Enabling

Environment

and Quality of

Governance

For 2020, each farm have 50 students trained for FFS on Modernized Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds and Farm Mechanization. TESDA awarded 2 batches with 50 scholarship slots this dry season from December 2020 to April 2021 to each LSA operator and the training started on December 14, 2020.

AESA Hands-on activity in Clemencia’s Farm

monthly narrative report - ati.da.gov.ph

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