VOL.

2 ISSUE #1 JAN-JUNE 2022

The official biannual newsletter of Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 02

digital farmer
in the making

WHAT’S INSIDE?
3 ATI, Partners celebrate first HVC Week
highlighting Farm Diversification

3 ATI conducts Backyard Agri-enterprise

trainings for IP community in Dinapigue
ATI at 35: Innovating OneDA
6 Agricultural Extension Strategies
Beyond the New Normal
9 SOA-SRA back on Airwaves in Region 02
22 OA Hacks: Vermicomposting
 CONTENTS
03 NEWS
3 ATI, Partners celebrate first HVC Week highlighting
Farm Diversification

3 Various agencies converge to enhance agri-fishery

extension delivery in Nueva Vizcaya
Dinapigue Dumagats train on various Backyard
4 Agri-Enterprise Trainings
ATI-RTC 02, partners ready to revive swine industry
4 in region
TOT on Coffee-based integrated farming system
5 capacitates trainers in Quirino
AEWs learn updated RCMAS through refresher
5 course
ATI at 35: Innovating OneDA Agricultural Extension
6 Strategies Beyond the New Normal
ATI trains new set of LFT as partners in Extension
6 Delivery

ABOUT THE COVER 6 ATI-RTC 02, LGUs join for a consultation workshop
on stakeholders’ training needs
Andres “Andie” Agustin is a 69-year-old 7 Digital farming to reach farmers through new DFP
farmer from Alfonso Castañeda, Nueva trainers
Vizcaya. Andie is a newly accredited LSA TOT on banana production graduates set to help
cooperator in their municipality. 7 boost banana industry in Region 2
BABay trainings to bid goodbye to African Swine
He uses the digital age to his own 8 Fever
advantage and improves his farm by ATI-RTC 2 brings knowledge, information and
researching in various apps and websites 8 technologies closer to stakeholders
such as Google and Youtube.
Andie is an emerging digital farmer who 9 SOA-SRA back on airwaves in Region 02
dreams to also help young and old farmers Trained facilitator-trainers to work efficiently with
in their town through his learning site. 9 the farmers for effective rice extension delivery
ATI-RTC 2 showcases munggo recipes, by-prod-
10 ucts of its host municipality, San Mateo
ABOUT THE TITLE 10 ATI-RTC 2 conducts Training of Trainers on FAW
Management
Light trail is mostly commonly associated
with photography which pertains to a point 10 AEWs train on monitoring ASF through
Quantum Geographic Information System
of light with a trail stretching from its final
position.

As a bureau of the Department of

12 FEATURE
Agriculture which focuses in delivering 12 COVER STORY: Andie: Digital Farmer in the making

extension services and capacity-building to 16 Success starts from Failure

its stakeholders, ATI stretches its hand to 16 Jehanel
extend support to agricultural extension
workers, farmers and other stakeholders.
ATI lights their way to adapt advanced and
effective farming practices and technologies,
and acquire new knowledge from it.
03 SECTIONS
16 Organic Agriculture (OA) Hacks

Light Trail is the official biannual newsletter 16 GAD Corner

of ATI-RTC02 which aims to inform, educate
and inspire its readers about agriculture
and fisheries through every page.

Editorial Board
editor-in-chief Vladimir B. Caliguiran
writers Vladimir B. Caliguiran
Francisca C. Yuro
Beverly S. Orpilla
Marshia C. Simeon
Maicah Chrishaine N. Constantino
Shaye C. Fontanilla
Cupido C. Sabatin, Jr. Department of Agriculture
Agricultural Training Institute
lay-out artist Shaye C. Fontanilla Regional Training Center 02
editorial advisers Imelda M. Guillermo San Mateo and Cabagan, Isabela
Claris M. Alaska, DPA
 NEWS
ATI, Partners celebrate first HVC Week highlighting Farm Diversification

T he Agricultural Training Institute –

Regional Training Center 02 kicked
crops from fruits, highland and lowland
vegetables, and even ornamentals.
product display, and different contests.
PhilRice OIC-Branch Director Joy
off the celebration of the 2022 High ATI-RTC Director Imelda M. Guillermo, Bartolome A. Duldulao, shared that
Value Crops Week with the theme: “Farm in her opening message, expressed this month is also the celebration
Diversification with High Value Crops: that she is beyond grateful that through of Filipino Food Month that aims to
Key to Recovery and Sustained Growth.” Learning Sites for Agriculture, ATI promote and transmit Filipino culinary
The celebration was held last April is always looking for opportunities traditions, and the importance of
11-13, 2022 at the agency compound and convergence with other agencies value adding of agricultural products
in Malasin, San Mateo, Isabela and to attain development in agriculture. especially that there is oversupply or
livestreamed via Facebook Live. Also, Mr. Jhimcelle V. Salvador, overproduction of agricultural produce,
OIC-Chief of Career Development specifically of high value crops.
Supported by the enactment of the and Management Services Section, Meanwhile, Mr. Julito T. Claveron, Jr.,
Republic Act No. 7900 also known as High explained the agenda of the celebration the Chief of BPI-NSQCS Tuguegarao
Value Crops Development Act of 1995 with lectures and discussions from City Station, mentioned that as their...
and proclamation number 469, Series of resource speakers, open forum, continued on page 5
2018, the month of April was declared
as High Value Crops (HVC) Week and
“Filipino Food Month” respectively. It led
to strengthen the implementation of the Various agencies converge to enhance agri-
HVCDP as one of the banner programs of
the Department of Agriculture that focuses
to the attainment of food self-sufficiency,
fishery extension delivery in Nueva Vizcaya
economic growth and enhancement
of consumers’ health and welfare.
R egional and provincial government
agencies, and local government units join
from Alfonso Castañeda, who was eyed
by ATI-RTC 02 as new Learning Site for
An Agri-fair featuring the products in the Inter-Agency Consultation meeting to Agriculture cooperator in the said municipality.
of ATI-Learning Site for Agriculture discuss plans for the implementation of various
from different parts of the region agri-fishery interventions in Nueva Vizcaya. During the meeting, Dr. Roberto Busania, RTD
was the highlight of the celebration. The meeting was held at Alfonso Castañeda, for Operations and Extension of DA-RFO2,
Nueva Vizcaya on April 27-28, 2022. shared key points concerning food security,
The event was participated by ATI namely: intensifying food production, mobilizing
stakeholders, PhilRice Isabela and The agencies presented their accomplishments movements of products, diversification
BPI-NSQCS staff, farmer-leaders, and targets for the year which cater of crops, finding alternative animal feeds
youth, and other stakeholders. farmers, fishers, and other stakeholders. sustaining feed formulation, enhancement of
The HVCDP week aims to give They also discussed coordination on practices, and checking of world supply of food.
promotion, recognition, and importance, some projects to avoid duplication of
to high-value crop products from areas and participants during trainings. The group also visited some of the
vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. projects in the municipality like dragonfruit
The three-day activity focuses in One of the highlights of the meeting, the farms, rabbitry and high value crop
promoting the production, processing, agencies expressed their support by pledging production for possible collaboration.
marketing, and distribution of high value commitment to Mr. Grande Agustin, a farmer ASFontanilla

3
Jan-Jun 2022 Light Trail
 NEWS
DINAPIGUE DUMAGATs train on various BACKYARD AGRI-ENTERPRISE TRAININGS
ToCommunity
empower the Indigenous Peoples
in Dinapigue, Isabela the
Agricultural Training Institute conducted
three backyard Agri-enterprise trainings
to Dumagats on May 18-20, 2022. The
said trainings were Training on Free-
range Chicken Egg Production, Training
on Mallard Egg Production, and Training
on Backyard Integrated Farming System.

Sixty-four members of the IP community

participated in the said trainings.
The participants were trained to produce
a natural feed mix using indigenous
ingredients available in their environment.
With this, the participants are expected
to improve the situation of their livestock
such as pigs, chickens, and ducks.

On the other hand, participants learned

and experienced some post-harvest
technologies for egg sorting, fabrication
of incubator, and salted egg making.
Also, they were equipped with the necessary
knowledge on concepts and strategies of to make themselves reliant and become (ICC’s) within the framework of national unity
backyard integrated farming and its benefits responsible citizens of the community. and development and to protect the rights of
through actual demonstration of different Republic Act 8371, commonly known as ICCs to their ancestral lands to ensure their
methods of gardening, vermicomposting, Indigenous Peoples Right Act (IPRA), economic, social, and cultural well-being.
and use of natural farming inputs which enacted in 1997, sets out the legal framework In support to this, the ATI is doing
can be used for both crops and livestock. for the rights of the indigenous peoples. The its best to provide opportunities for
Through its capability-building program, ATI law mandates the government to “recognize the IPs for growth and development
empowers the IPs so that they can engage in and promote the rights of indigenous that will uplift their living condition.
productive activities and livelihood projects peoples/indigenous cultural communities CCSabatinJr

ATI-RTC 02, partners ready to

a way to control the spread of the
disease. “It is important to educate

revive swine industry in region 2

hog raisers with the minimum
biosecurity protocol,” Dr. Paguyu said.

Through various trainings and

information campaigns steered in 2021,
the partnering agencies are optimistic
with the effects of educating and
spreading awareness among hog raisers.

In the consultation meeting, Center

Director Imelda M. Guillermo suggested
that ATI, DA-RFO 02, PVET, BAI and
LGUs should have a convergence
project such as identifying an existing
learning site to showcase practices
on biosecurity and low-cost feeds for
backyard hog raising. Meanwhile, Dr.
Maurianne Turingan, national livestock
program focal person mentioned that,
those who were given with sentinel
pigs can also be identified as a
model of biosecured swine backyard

W ith the goal

industry in
to revive the swine
the region, the
2. Other agenda were the presentation
of 2021 accomplishment for ASF
and low-cost feeds production where
other hog raisers can emulate.
Agricultural Training Institute-Regional program, 2022 ASF program targets
Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) called and the Guideline on the Recovery Moreover, Assistant Center Director Dr.
for a consultation meeting with the and Declaration of Freedom from ASF Claris M. Alaska said in her welcome
Department of Agriculture Regional for Local Government Units (LGU). remark, “Let us help one another
Field Office 2 (DA-RFO 02), Bureau of A workshop was also done by the in reviving the livestock industry.
Animal Industry-Veterinary Quarantine agencies to come up with a workplan Let us continue to work as One DA.”
Services (BAI-VQS) Region 02 and for the 2023 national livestock
the Provincial Veterinary Offices training and extension program. Further, a strengthened partnership
in Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino and among agencies is very much crucial
Nueva Vizcaya on February 2, 2022. By strengthening the capacity of especially in securing regional
the region to fight against ASF, Dr. borders by implementing stricter
The consultation meeting highlighted Benjamin Ike Paguyu, BAI-VQS protocols to control the widespread
the discussion of future plans of Regional Veterinary Quarantine Officer recurrence of ASF in the region.
the partner agencies in combating emphasized the need to establish MCSimeon
African Swine Fever (ASF) in region a task force in ASF checkpoints as

4
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 NEWS
TOT on Coffee-based integrated farming system capacitates trainers in Quirino
Training of trainers capacitated 25 among the crops that can be integrated of the Provincial Agriculturist-Quirino.
participants with knowledge, skills, and with the coffee-based integrated During her opening message, ATI-
attitude on coffee-based integrated farming system. Excelsa and Robusta RTC 02 Center Director Imelda M.
farming system at DISADECO, are the available coffee varieties Guillermo stressed the importance
Diffun, Quirino on April 25-29, 2022. that can be found in the province. of integrated farming system. She
Furthermore, the training covered mentioned that every farmer must
The provincial local government post-harvest handling to processing engage in integrated farming and not
unit of Quirino has been working on of coffee. During hands-on activities, just in monocropping to achieve the
boosting the coffee industry in the participants learned pesticide residue “Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita”
province by partnering with various analysis, coffee plant cloning and vision of the Department of Agriculture.
agencies. Thus, the conduct of a different methods of processing green
coffee-based training may help the coffee bean like de-pulping, hulling, The trainees are expected to share their
locals to contribute to this cause. sorting, roasting, grinding and brewing. learnings to the farmers in their localities
During the training, agricultural as stated in the action plans that they
extension workers and farmers leaders “This training gave me a lot of wrote during the training. The TOT is one
learned good agricultural practices for knowledge regarding coffee from seed of the interventions of ATI to empower
coffee production, food safety act, good to cup as end-product. I learned also the AEWs and farmer-leaders as part
manufacturing practices, and coffee- the importance of integrated farming of the Provincial-led Agri-Fishery and
based integrated farming systems. to earn more profit or income rather Extension System (PAFES) in Quirino.
Potato, tomato, dry beans, cabbage, than [using] monocropping,” said ASFontanilla
carrots, banana and coconut are Joanne S. Fernandez, AEW of Office

AEWs learn updated RCMAS

through refresher course
A gricultural extension workers (AEWs)
coming from various provinces of region
2 learned the updated Rice Crop Manager
Advisory Service (RCMAS) during a
refresher course conducted at ATI-RTC 02,
San Mateo, Isabela from April 26-28, 2022.

Resource persons taught and demonstrated

new added features in the application with
its new version, RCMAS 4.0. The optimized
version has the following components: farmer
and farm lot registration, geo-referencing of
farm lots, generation and printing of farmer
ID cards, sending of auto-generated text
messages to farmers’ mobile phone numbers,
and farm monitoring to complement RCM
and further increase benefits to farmers. RCM for the next planting season,” said user registration and RCMAS online.
Noralyn B. Ababa, one of the participants
“Sa training na ito, na-impress ako sa new and AEW from LGU-Claveria, Cagayan. The training concluded on April 28,
features ng RCMAS application dahil para sa 2022 with 23 participants awarded
akin mas madaling gamitin at magkakaroon To increase recall, the participants with their completion certificates.
na rin ng database or information ng mga were refreshed on the basic features ASFontanilla
farmer if ever na may interview na ng of the application again, namely: RCM

ATI, Partners celebrates first HVC ... from page 3

...contribution to the HVC industry, they mga learning site cooperators, ang Various produce and products from
ensured high quality seeds and planting aming malalaking investors. Kayo different learning sites for agriculture
materials for farmers and growers. He also ang may mahahabang pasensya at like “Pinakbet” vegetables, fruits, coffee,
emphasized that high value crops are not just may pagpupunyagi na makapasok turmeric, tablea, mushroom, fruit bearing
vegetables but also fruits and ornamentals. sa malalaking merkado,” she added. tree seedlings, lettuce, cabbage, carrots,
Ocampo also introduced the “three sugar beets, potatoes, cavendish banana,
Director Leah Pulido Ocampo, the rising star” of the Department of Trade eggs, and many others are being displayed
Regional Director of Department of and Industry specifically, the Munggo, and purchased throughout the activity.
Trade and Industry-Region 2 served as Ube, and Calamansi production and
the guest speaker during the opening processing which aims to enter not only With the HVC Week celebration, it reminds
program emphasized that without in the local market but in the global everyone that farm diversification with
the presence of the Department of market. Also, she encouraged the high value crops involves planting more
Agriculture and the other agencies like farmers to be more competitive and than one crop varieties with the integration
ATI, BPI, PhilRice and other they might to be global suppliers and exporters. of animal husbandry, poultry, and fisheries
hardly promote, package, and market that ensures additional source of income
different products locally and globally. Afterwards, a lecture on Product and can pave the way for economic
“We really need convergence at Labelling and Packaging was explained growth and sustainable agriculture.
dahil diyan ngayon ko mas lalong by Ms. Emma Jane P. Domingo from
nakikita na kayong mga farmers, ang DTI Region 2 of LGU San Mateo. MCConstantino

5
Jan-June 2022 Light Trail
 NEWS
ATI at 35: Innovating OneDA Agricultural ATI trains new set of LFT
Extension Strategies Beyond the New Normal as partners in Extension Delivery
C omplementing the limited number
T he Agricultural Training Institute is
celebrating its 35th Founding Anniversary
and youth and women empowerment,”
the agri chief said during the Awards and
of extension workers in the Local
Government Units, the Agricultural Training
Institute -Regional Training Center 02
this year with the theme “Innovating OneDA Recognition Program in the afternoon. conducted Specialized Training Course
Agricultural Extension Strategies Beyond for New Local Farmer Technicians (LFTs).
the New Normal.” A week-long celebration “Even at the height of the pandemic, we It was conducted on June 6-10, 2022
commenced on January 25, was conducted witnessed how relentless the ATI was, at ATI-RTC 02, San Mateo, Isabela.
at ATI Central Office in Quezon City and under the leadership of Dir. Rosana The 31 new LFTs from different provinces
in different training centers nationwide. Mula, in making sure that farmers, were trained on the principles and keychecks
fishers, and agri-entrepreneurs continue of the PalayCheck System, ICT-based tools
Agriculture Secretary William Dar, DA to learn and improve their knowledge and resources, extension delivery system,
and transformational leadership. Through
Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson and skills in entrepreneurship and farm the training, the LFTs were supplemented
Noel Reyes, ATI Director Rosana Mula business management through virtual and with knowledge and skills that will help
and ATI Assistant Director Antonietta blended training programs,” he added. them in conducting extension activities.
Arceo led the opening program and
“I’ve learned to be a responsible LFT.
launching of the ATI Operations Meanwhile, Dir. Mula said that the I’ve learned a lot in every activity and
Manual and Skill Up webinar series. ATI Operations manual ‘is part of our also there are many technologies that
commitment for a smooth transition and we should share to our farmers specially
ATI-RTC 02 Center Director Imelda M. continuity of the OneDA Reform Agenda’. the Palaycheck System to improve their
practice and to increase their yield as well
Guillermo together with the staff and as their income,” Ms. Zoraida Licayu said.
partners joined the opening program and She also recognized the contributions
other events via Zoom and Facebook Live. and effort of every ATI staff in “Dahil sa training na ito ay nalaman ko
delivering capacity building and other ang tunay na tungkulin ko bilang isang
Local Farmer Technician sa aming bayan.
In his message, Secretary Dar emphasized extension support system to different Nais ko ding magpasalamat sa mga RP
the important role of ATI as ‘capacity builder beneficiaries and stakeholders. natin dahil sa kanila ay nahasa kami sa
for extension workers, farmer-leaders, and tamang way ng pagdedeliver ng aming mga
those involved in the national programs for ATI was established in January 1987 lectures sa mga farmers sa aming lugar
at maipapamahagi din namin yung mga
development, extension and many other.’ through Executive Order No. 116 which bagong technology sa kanila na pwede
merged the Bureau of Agricultural Extension nilang gamitin upang tumaas ang kanilang
“Through its solid and robust network of (BAEx), the Philippine Agricultural ani,” Romeo Peralta of San Mateo said.
training centers and private extension Training Council (PATC) and the Philippine
LFTs are partners of the Department of
partners, we continue to see the ATI as Training Centers for Rural Development Agriculture and LGUs in the provision of
the forefront in the professionalization of (PTC-RD). At present, it has 16 training extension services towards improving rice
our sector, particularly in strengthening centers spread across the country. productivity. They are expected to share
the agriculture career system, education their learnings, technologies and practices
VBCaliguiran to their fellow farmers in the community.
and training on agribusiness management,
MCConstantino

ATI-RTC 02, LGUs join for a consultation workshop on stakeholders’ training needs
meeting helped in identifying issues and
concerns in the agricultural sector. For him,
existing partnership between the different
agencies under DA and local government
counterparts contributes in better program
implementation of various agricultural sector
banner programs down to the local level.

In the meeting, Dr. Claris M. Alaska,

TCS I and Assistant Center Director,
presented the ATI policies and directions
to give the stakeholders an overview of
the agency programs and projects. Mr.
Aldrin E. Abarca, PEO I, presented the
FY 2021 accomplishment highlights.
The ATI-RTC 02 catered to over 6,
T othe ensure that the training needs of
stakeholders are addressed, the
is held every first quarter of the year.
It aims to assess the training needs of
000 trained participants which
mostly extension workers and farmers.
are

Agricultural Training Institute-Regional extension workers and farmer-leaders to Meanwhile, Ms. Mayflor R. Macmac,
Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) met with support the extension program and services Planning Officer II discussed the FY
various local government units (LGUs) for implementation of LGUs. The output of the 2022 activities where the AEWs from
a consultation workshop on the different workshop will be the basis in creating policies different LGUs can participate in.
banner programs. The meetings were that address gaps and issues in the local level.
held in Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Isabela Continued support of ATI-RTC 02 to the
and Cagayan from March 22-24, 2022. “Dito sa Villaverde, sa agricultural sector, localities through LGUs strengthened
kailangan ng mga farmers na malaman partnership with them. They are also
These banner programs, which include rice, ang mga makabagong pamamaraan ng expected to implement the programs and
corn, high value crops, organic agriculture, pagsasaka. Para naman sa mga LGU [staff], projects that are directly tasked to them by
and livestock, of the Department of Agriculture maganda ang mga training katulad ng TOT,” the DA to correspond to the programs of
(DA) are created to help address food security, said Mr. Arsenio T. Mariñas, Municipal the Department and its attached-agencies.
poverty alleviation and sustainable growth. Agriculturist of LGU-Villaverde, Nueva ASCFontanilla
Started in 2019, the consultation workshop Vizcaya. For Mr. Mariñas, the consultation

6
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 NEWS
Digital farming to reach farmers through new DFP trainers
N ew set of trainers graduated from the
Training of Trainers on Digital Farmers
Program (DFP) and are expected to
introduce digital farming to farmers. The
training was held at ATI-RTC 02, San
Mateo, Isabela from June 14-17, 2022.
Twenty-five agricultural extension
workers (AEWs) from various
municipalities of Isabela, Cagayan, and
Nueva Vizcaya joined in the training.

The four-day training focused on the first

two levels of the program, DFP 101 and
102. The two levels cover Smartphone
101, basic and advanced agriculture
apps, social media marketing,
internet safety tips, e-commerce,
and social media content creation.

The trained AEWs are expected to

head the roll-out of the program in their
municipalities that caters farmers and
youth. They accepted the role to bring Last April 19-22, 39 agricultural of impression of the participants.
digitalized farming down to the farmers. extension workers (AEWs) also Launched in 2019, DFP aims to equip
The farmers shall be trained in maximizing graduated as trainers from the program. the farmers with knowledge and skillsin
the use of smartphone and other ICT using the basic ICT tools including social
resources in their farming activities. “Ang training na ito ay makatutulong media, climate and weather monitoring
sa mga magsasaka na mas mapadali applications, and online activity
“Para sa amin sa Calayan, Cagayan, ang kanilang pagbebenta ng kanilang and payment options. It consists of
ang DFP ay isang level up para sa mga produkto. Ang mga farmers ay mas ladderized approach in helping farmers
mga farmers,” said Catherine Payas, matututo ng tamang timing kung kailan make better farming decisions, access
AEW from LGU-Calayan. She also sila maghaharvest ng kanilang produkto more market opportunities, and increase
added that she will coordinate with their upang hindi masira ang mga ito. Matututo their livelihood and income. The program
local chief executive and municipal pa silang mag-apply ng tamang amount contents are broken down in to three level;
agriculturist to improve their internet ng fertilizer at maaari pang ma-compute namely DFP 101 (Beginner), DFP 102
connection. Better connection shall help ang kanilang mga gastos at kita,” said (Intermediate), and DFP 103 (Advance).
farmers to access various agriculture Odeza Nagtalon of Jones, Isabela, one
apps and social media platforms. of the participants during the sharing ASCFontanilla

TOT on banana production graduates set to help boost banana industry in Region 2
“At first, I had a doubt in coming into
this training because we are already
planting banana since my childhood.
But I still attended because that’s the
order of my boss. And I am really glad
because all I thought I know already
what banana production is. But then,
there are so many lectures/discussions
yet to learn about especially on Good
Agricultural Practices, GMPs and
post-harvest handling and processing.
New knowledge and skills unlocked,”
Engr. Gerald B. Carmelo, an AEW
from San Agustin, Isabela said.

Grouped into teams, the trainees produced

various products using banana as
primary ingredient. Some of the products
were muffins, marmalade, and chips.
Agricultural extension workers and farmer-
leaders from various municipalities
in Region 2 comprised the trainees.

T wenty-five new graduates of Training of

Trainers on Good Agricultural Practices
The trainees learned the status of the
banana industry in the region and the basic
“Marami talaga kaming natutunan lalo
na sa good agricultural practices at sa
good manufacturing practices. Sana ay
(GAP) on Banana Production are expected principles and concepts of good agricultural
maiapply din namin ito lalo na sa mga
to help boost the Banana Industry in Region practices (GAP) and its application for produkto namin na sana ay ma-GAP
2 to be on par with the banana producers GAP compliance. Also, they showed Certified din. Kaya as extension worker,
and suppliers in the southern part of their skills in post-harvest handling and ito ang challenge sa atin kung paano natin
the country. The training included post- processing, and discussed market product iimplement ang lahat ng mga program
na ito sa ating mga municipalities,”
harvest handling and processing of the analysis, labelling and marketing. These AEW John Christopher M. Suhat of
crop which was conducted at ATI-RTC 02, sets of knowledge and skills are both Alfonso Castańeda, Nueva Vizcaya said.
San Mateo, Isabela from June 6-10, 2022. relevant in improving the banana industry. ASCFontanilla

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 7

 NEWS
BABay trainings to bid goodbye to African Swine Fever
participants are from Nueva Vizcaya, an area
which was also extremely affected by the ASF.
BBOs were equipped with necessary
knowledge and skills on Biosecurity,
disease surveillance, and specimen
collection for laboratory testing which
are useful in combating ASF in the local
level. They were also insured in PCIC.

As ASF wiped out most of the country’s

swine industry in the past years, BABay
trainings become one of the initiatives of
ATI and National Livestock Program of the
Department of Agriculture (DA) to help
revive the swine industry and to easily detect,
manage, and prevent any new diseases.
The training covered the discussion on
Bantay ASF sa Barangay Project, and
guidelines in swine movement; biosecurity
audit; practice of appropriate biosecurity
measure, collecting different specimen
and handling, packing and transport of
specimen; and preparation of supplies,
materials, tolls in collection and transport
of specimen and animals for collection.
The ATI-RTC 02 will also conduct

Through the conduct of

sa Barangay (BABay):
Bantay ASF
Training on
Biosecurity Officers (BBO) to effectively
combat African Swine Fever (ASF).
ASF information caravan in selected
municipalities from June 27-29, 2022.
Biosecurity, Surveillance and Sample BABay ASF is a collaboration effort of
Collection for Additional Barangay On June 24, 2022, another batch of the DA, local government units, and the
Biosecurity Officers in Region 2, Agricultural capacitated BBOs graduated from the private sector that aims to restore and
Training Institute-Regional Training Center training. Twenty graduates are added to the revive the swine industry in the country.
02 continues to capacitate Barangay roster of capacitated BBOs in the region. The ASCFontanilla

ATI-RTC 2 brings knowledge, information and technologies closer to stakeholders

W ith the goal to bridge the
between information
gap
and
partner of the center in delivering
extension services in region 2.
niyo po kami. Kaya labis po kaming
nagagalak at natutuwa (agyaman)
technology, and the farmers, traders, Meanwhile, Dr. Claris M. Alaska, dahil sa patuloy ninyong pagsuporta
processors, entrepreneurs and other Assistant Center Director presented at kung hindi dahil po sa inyo ay
stakeholders, the Agricultural Training the FITS Kiosk and FITS Center wala po kami dito ngayon. Bilang
Institute-Regional Training Center project overview giving emphasis on pinakabata sa lahat ng farm school
2 (ATI-RTC 2) awarded Farmers the goals of FITS and the functions owners ako po ay maraming natutunan
Information and Technology Services of Learning Sites and MLGUs in at marami pa pong matututunan. Lahat
(FITS) logistics, supplies and IEC providing access to information, po tayo ay nagtutulungan at hindi po
materials support for the establishment knowledge and technologies. tayo naghihilahan pababa. Iyon po
of 25 FITS Kiosks and enhancement ang maganda pagdating sa ATI-RTC
of 6 FITS Centers to various LGUs The FITS Kiosk were awarded with 02. Sa lahat po ng binigay niyo,
and farm schools. It was held at display cabinet, printer, tarpaulin and printer, IEC materials at cabinet ay
ATI-RTC 2 on December 14, 2021. IEC materials. On the other hand, napakalaking tulong po ito lalo na sa
6MLGUs were also granted with tablet, ating farmers. Sa pamamagitan po nito
The FITS Kiosk and FITS Center display cabinet, printer, tarpaulin and ay mas marami pang matututunan ang
serve as library of farmers and other IEC materials. These grants were ating mga farmers, mas marami pa po
stakeholders making knowledge, given upon the request of the different tayong maibibigay na impormasyon
information and technologies learning sites and MLGUs through a sa kanila patungkol sa pagsasaka.
accessible for them. It is also one letter of intent approved by the Center Iyon lamang po at ang goal po natin
way to strengthen the link among the Director. A Letter of Agreement was ay mapataas ang ani at mapababa
technology generators, technology signed between the center and the ang gastusin ng ating mga farmer. “
servers and technology adopters. FITS Kiosk and Center Managers to
forge the implementation of the project. Moreover, it is expected that the
During the awarding ceremony, ATI- A monitoring will also be done to make FITS Kiosks and FITS Centers will be
RTC 2 Center Director Imelda M. sure that they will be able to maintain able to help bridge the gap between
Guillermo emphasized that Learning and follow the agreements set. technology generators and technology
Sites and MLGUs play a big role in adopters by improving access to
improving access to information, In her impression Ms. Gweneth R. information that they deserve.
knowledge and technology of farmers Brillo, Farm School Owner of Brillo’s
and other stakeholders. She also Integrated Farm said: “From the start
recognized their efforts being the sinuporthan ninyo po kami at ginuide MCSimeon

8 Light Trail Jan-June 2022

 NEWS
S O A- S R A b a c k o n A i r wav e s i n R e g i o n 0 2
T he PalayAralan: Makabagong
Pagsasaka sa Himpapawid is now back
on the airwaves of Region 02. The School-
on-the Air program was officially launched
last May 25, 2022 by the Agricultural
Training Institute – Regional Training
Center 02, Department of Agriculture-
Regional Field Office 02 and Philippine
Rice Research Institute-Isabela Branch,
provincial and municipal local government
units of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.

The SOA-SRA is being broadcasted in

six (6) radio stations across the region.
At least 2,000 farmer-enrollees are
participating from the provinces of Nueva
Vizcaya and Quirino, since these areas are
the identified sites based on the level of
rice productivity. There are also peripheral
listeners from neighboring provinces
covered by the carrier radio stations. She further stressed that for this this year, agencies under the Department of
it will be focusing on nutrient management, Agriculture (DA) and other institutions
During the launching, the overview pest management and water management for the knowledge sharing on various
was presented by ATI-RTC 2 Assistant to address the current problem being agriculture and fisheries technologies.
Center Director Dr. Claris M. Alaska. She faced by the farmers. The experts ATI-RTC 2 Center Director Imelda M.
emphasized that the program will feature will be from DA-RFO 02, DA-RCPC, Guillermo in her message reiterated
Smart Rice Agriculture technologies PhilRice, PCIC, DOST-PAGASA and ATI. that through the SOA more famers
developed by the R&D agencies. It aims will be reached through radio with
to help catalyze agriculture modernization The SOA-SRA program aims to create strong support of the partner LGUs.
through massive and sustained education awareness and impart knowledge on
of smallholder farmers and local smart rice technologies among target Highlighting the activity were the
intermediaries on modern and innovative participants from the provinces of messages given by the ATI Deputy
technologies and approaches on smart Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino to provide Director Dir. Antonieta J. Arceo, PhilRice-
rice production. It shall share cutting-edge continuous learning to our rice farmers. Isabela Assistant Branch Director
technologies and innovative approaches Fernando Garcia, Regional Technical
to help maximize rice productivity As the DA’s capacity builder and Director for Operations and Extension...
in medium and low yield provinces catalyst of the extension system, the
ATI takes the lead in the implementation continued on page 11
through radio, amplifying the limited
reach of agricultural extension workers. and in collaboration with other

Trained FACILITATOR-TRAINERS to work efficiently with the technology, farm mechanization, and
information and communication technology

farmers for effective rice extension Services delivery (ICT) based tools. This leads to one of
the key strategies to transform Philippine
Agriculture through education and training.
“Napakagandang programa ng RCEF ang
ganitong mga trainings kasi nakaka-develop
sila ng mga taong magiging daan for the
success ng maraming farmers dito sa ating
bansa,” said Ms. Stephany C. Andres of
BH Roque Integrated Farm, Santiago City.

In this training, the 30 farm school facilitators

strengthened their sense of mission
and instilled to their minds through the
transformational leadership discussion
with Mr. Jei-ar M. Limos, technical staff
of ATI-RTC 02. To motivate them to
work more for the famers, Dr. Marvin
B. Luis, Regional Rice Focal Person of
DA RFO 02 discussed the Rice Industry
Situationer and the OneDA Reform Agenda.
Towards its objective to capacitate
extension workers, farm school owners
Farm Mechanization on January 27-28 via
online platform and face-to –face session on Moreover, the participants were equipped
and training facilitators on the delivery February 2-11, 2022 at ATI San Mateo Center. with knowledge and skills on rice seed
of extension services, ATI conducted a The farm school facilitators are also production technology through PalayCheck...
Training of Trainers on the Production of responsible in equipping the farmers with
continued on page 11
High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds, and knowledge and skills on rice production

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 9

 NEWS
ATI-RTC 2 showcases munggo recipes, by-products of its HOST municipality, SAN MATEO

The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional

Training Center (ATI-RTC) 2 joined
Culinary Heritage Movement are leading the
Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong
every Friday. According to Ms. Carmelita
G. Pucut, she serves munggo to her
the commemoration of this year’s Filipino Pilipino in 2022 with the theme “Pagkaing family every Friday because it is the
Food Month (FFM) through a documentary Pilipino, Susi sa Pag-unlad at Pagbabago.” day where her whole family is complete
showcasing munggo recipes and mungo and munggo is one of their favorites.
by-products of San Mateo, Isabela known To show support to this endeavor, ATI-RTC
as the Munggo Capital of the Philippines. 2 featured and promoted munggo farming, “Munggo is a super food, very rich siya in a lot
munggo recipes and munggo by-products of ways. It has carbohydrate, it has a protein,
Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong of San Mateo, Isabela through a video and we could also get from munggo several
Pilipino is celebrated every April by documentary livestreamed via Facebook page vitamins and minerals,” said Dr. Ruth Cantor,
Presidential Proclamation No. 469 signed of the Center and partners on April 27, 2022. Municipal Health Officer of San Mateo,
in 2018. FFM is a national event aimed at The video documentary covered the Isabela. When asked about the idea of
appreciating, preserving, promoting, and demonstration of munggo recipes by the people that munggo causes arthritis, she said
ensuring the transmission of the rich Filipino Rural Improvement Club President Ms. that munggo is not bad for the health but she
culinary traditions and treasures to future Eden V. Ramil together with her member would always emphasize that consumption
generations as well as supporting various Ms. Carmelita G. Pucut of Barangay 2, of munggo should be in moderation.
industries, farmers, and agri-communities. San Mateo, Isabela. The demonstration
The Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement, aimed to showcase their secret recipe Meanwhile, there are at least 7, 000
the Department of Agriculture, the Department in cooking ‘guinisang munggo’ as a hectares of rice farm planted with munggo in
of Tourism, the National Commission for viand and ‘lelot balatong’ as snack. San Mateo. Based on the data recorded by
Culture and the Arts, and the Philippine Munggo is commonly served by Filipinos the Philippine Statistics Authority, Isabela is
the among top munggo producing provinces
with 5,597.65 metric tons harvested in
2020 from an area of 12, 510.75 hectares.
ATI-RTC 2 conducts Training of Trainers on FAW Management In an interview, Municipal Agriculturist

T o ensure long-term management options

in controlling Fall Army Worm infestation
and skills on FAW management protocol,
prevention practices; suppression
Emiliano Camba said that almost 100%
of the rice farmers in their municipality
to crops specifically corn in region 2, the techniques and methods; field surveillance are practicing munggo-after-rice cropping
Department of Agriculture (DA) through the and identification of vulnerable areas. system for decades now. This practice
Agricultural Training Institute and Regional Use of digital applications on FAW has helped the farmers improve their
Crop Protection Center (RCPC) conducted surveillance was also introduced. socio-economic condition in which they
Training of Trainers on FAW management were able to generate income from
for AEW’s and farmer leaders. This will As indicated in their action plan, they are
their munggo harvest aside from rice.
also help create a pool of FAW experts expected to help intensify the information
that can be tapped to provide technical drive and technical assistance to control
assistance to farmers in the field. the infestation of FAW in the region. Likewise, through the years, they have
developed munggo-based products
Thirty-one Agricultural Extension Workers The participants expressed their such as noodles, coffee, chips, polvoron
and farmer leaders in corn producing appreciation and gratitude for the among others. These are readily
municipalities in the region attended the opportunity given to them attending the available at their Pasalubong Center.
3-day training last March 4-6, 2022 at said training through their impressions. With this venture, the municipality of San
ATI-RTC 2 Malasin San Mateo, Isabela. Mateo is eyeing for exportation of their
Experts from the DA-RFO 02, DA-RCPC
munggo by-products in the near future.
able to enhance participants’ knowledge FCYuro
MCSimeon

10
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 NEWS
ATI newly train on monitoring ASF through
Quantum Geographic Information System Trained facilitator-trainer... from page 9
T he Department of Agriculture is now
using the Quantum Geographic ...System that was discussed by the rice Faraon shared his experiences and
Information System (QGIS) for the specialists of ATI-RTC 02, Mr. Jhimcelle journey on how he established his
monitoring and surveillance of the own farm school and implements
Salvador, Mr. Orlando Tecson, Engr.
African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country.
Berverly G. Sanchez, and Engr. RCEF Farmers’ Field School.
A two-day training on QGIS wasg Johnson S. Lameg. Rice insect pests
conducted by the ATI for AEWs as part of and diseases and its management Mr. Rey Ashley V. Hernandez of RAMIs
the Bantay ASF sa Barangay Program. considerations was presented by Mr. Integrated Farm said: “It was really
Wilbert C. Crisologo of DA-RCPC. an interesting training that fully met
The first batch was conducted
on February 17-18, 2022 and Engr. Richie L. Vea with the technical my expectations. The trainers had an
participated by AEWs from staff of BPI-NSQCS discussed and excellent ability to communicate, the
different municipalities of Isabela. demonstrated the laboratory standards training was very useful with a lot of tips
and seed certification procedures. To be and good suggestions. The training
The training aims to capacitate the
more tech-savvy, topics on ICT-based was delivered with professionalism,
AEWs with supplementary knowledge
and appropriate skills on QGIS. tools in agriculture specifically in rice was knowledge and expertise . It was
It focuses on data encoding and discussed by Mr. Vladimir B. Caliguiran, very interactive, practical and helpful,
preparation of zoning map for ASF Information Officer II of ATI-RTC 02. and entertaining too, enabling me
monitoring, surveillance and reporting to achieve my learning objectives.
system. The QGIS is an essential
open-source software and tool that Furthermore, other topics were I was impressed by the skills and
allows users for analyzing, viewing, and Rice Tariffication Law and RCEF knowledge of the resource speakers
editing spatial information in composing Program discussed by Mr. Salvador; and also the training management
and exporting graphical maps. for the understanding and patience.
Basic financial literacy and farm
planning and budgeting shared by It’s a great privilege to attend training
Meanwhile, Mr. John Meynard U.
Laguitan of LGU-Luna, Isabela Ms. Mayflor R. Macmac; Principles like this for it will be very helpful in
mentioned on his impression: of Adult Learning presented by Mr. my daily work; most especially if
“Nagkaroon ako ng idea and Arlene G. Ong; Communication and we conduct FFS in the farm. To
knowledge sa kung papano iset-up o all resource speakers, thank you
gamitin ang QGIS. Sa una mahirap Presentation Skills elaborated by Ms.
at nakakalito nga lang ang paggamit Francisca Yuro; and Palayamanan for sharing your knowledge and
ng system na ito pero dahil na din and Biomass Recycling explained by experiences with us. Throughout this
sa masipag at matiyagang pagtuturo Cupido C. Sabatin and Jerome Angel. training it has been really helpful
ng resource person kami ay natuto. and inspiring, it combines very high
Syempre, salamat po sa lahat ng
Aside from the lecture and discussion, levels of professionalism with a
mga staff at kapwa ko participants
na naging kasama sa training na ito.” hands-on activities on Agro-Ecosystem friendly and relaxed atmosphere.”
Analysis (AESA), Rice Machinery
The training is part of the BABay Operations and field rouging on the With the strong partnership of DA-
ASF Program of the Department RFO 02, BPI-NSQCS, DA-RCPC
of Agriculture. It was conducted in seed production were experienced by
partnership with the DA Regional the participants. For benchmarking, and ATI-RTC 02, the training
Field Office 02 and Provincial the participants visited the Faraon was successfully implemented.
Veterinary Office of Isabela Integrated Farm, an RCEF Learning
At the end of the training, the participants
Site and Farm School owned by Mr. BSOrpilla
prepared their livestock density map
intended for their municipality or city. Mark Anthony Faraon. During the visit,
MCConstantino

SOA-SRA bacK... from page 9

...Dr. Roberto C. Busania of DA-RFO Also, we hope to engage government PhilRice-Isabela, DA-Experiment Station
2 and the Secretary of the Department agencies, local government units, civil of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino, Provincial
of Agriculture, Dr. William D. Dar. society organizations, and private and Municipal Agriculturists and SOA
sector in the national rice program. Coordinators from the provinces of Nueva
As Secretary Dar said, “the SOA-SRA May this SOA-SRA serve as feedback Vizcaya and Quirino giving their full support
aims more to our dear farmers and show mechanism system and venue of dialogue in the implementation of SOA-SRA with
to everyone the latest innovation and among the rice industry stakeholders.” the pledge of commitment in promoting
technologies toward modernization that awareness and imparting knowledge
will greatly contribute to the Department After which, the SOA-SRA was formally on smart rice technologies to farmers
of Agriculture with its goal of Masaganang launched through a Memorandum to help them achieve Masaganang Ani,
Ani at Mataas na Kita para sa buong bansa. of Agreement between the partner Mataas na Kita as envisioned by the DA.
This program will facilitate the massive agencies and LGUs signed as a symbol
and sustain education of smallholder of commitment towards the successful The launching was followed through
farmers of Smart Rice Agriculture through conduct of the SOA-SRA in the region. the first airing on May 26, 2022 and is
radio. We look forward to building linkages The MOA was presented and the signing expected to culminate on October 2022.
with knowledge, technology, and other was facilitated by Mr. Hector U. Tabbun,
support providers of the rice industry. Chief of the Regional Agriculture and
Enlighten the listeners’ awareness and Fisheries Information Section of DA-RFO 2.
mobilize strong support and involvement The activity was participated by partner
of rural population in agriculture programs. agencies from DA-RFO 2, ATI-RTC 2, FCYuro

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 11

 ANDIE digital farmer in the mak
A ndres Agustin was all smiles when we arrived at his farm at Alfonso
Castañeda, Nueva Vizcaya. Upon entering his farm, we immediately
saw the crops that he planted which are due to be sold in the coming
months.

A farmer for 40 years, Andres spent most of his time cultivating the land
that he owns into a successful and profitable farm. While he started
from applying traditional farming practices, his son, who was a Bachelor
in Electronics and Communications Engineering graduate but share
the same interests as him in farming, assisted him in transforming his
farming techniques digitally. He gradually learns to become a digital
farmer.

12
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 COVER STORY

A photographer-turned-farmer

01
Prior to becoming a full-time farmer, Andres was a
photographer. Andres, or nicknamed as “Andie”, was born
and raised in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

His passion for photography, that started at age 17, brought

him to Alfonso Castañeda and became part of the National
Irrigation Administration’s project in the area. He spent eight
years as a photographer who takes photos for the project.

Fond of reading agriculture magazines and newsletters,

he would read success stories of farmers on how they
succeeded in farming. This motivated him to venture also
in farming and awaken a dream to be one of the many who
were featured in newsletters and magazines.

“Nakitak nga napintas ti future na [ti agrikultura],” he said. (The

future of agriculture is bright.)

E: 02
Raised by a police officer and a housewife, Andie started his
journey as a farmer with no prior experience in farming but
has his passion in agriculture. At 30, he left his high-paying job
and used the money that he saved to buy agricultural land.
He decided to settle in Alfonso Castañeda. Then for the next
40 years, he learned to become a farmer.

Andie has been managing over 20 hectares of agricultural

land now.

king
A digital farmer in-the-making

Starting from scratch was not an easy job for Andie. With nothing to
support his family of seven but the farm, he had to make it work.
SHAYE C. FONTANILLA
He started cultivating the farm and planted crops such as palay,
hybrid corn, squash, beans, and eggplant as first crops. Today, he
plants various varieties of Sili, dwarf Coconut, and Calamansi trees
which are in demand in the market. He applied what he knew about
farming. Over a period of time, the farm expanded and improved
into a nine-hectare farm area.

However, he recognized that what he knew was not enough. He

must learn more. Hence, Zaldy, one of his sons, assisted him. Zaldy
introduced him to various apps and websites that he may visit to
research about modern farming practices.

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 13

 As he is now living in the digital age, 69-year-old Andie
matched the pace of the advancement of technology;
particularly in farming using a smartphone, and a smart and
open mind.

“Agkitkita kami diay Google ken Youtube. Idi adda

panggatangen [ti materyales], tuladen min [diay practice ken
technology],” he shared. (We researched through Google
and Youtube. When we have enough fund to buy materials,
we adapt the practice and technology.)

Through the articles and videos that he saw, he capacitated

himself to adapt modern farming. Andie started his own
drip irrigation system which has been running for one and a
half years already, and started organic farming practice. By
applying the drip irrigation system in the farm, Andie saved
50% or over Php600 from the labor expenses in hiring four
people to irrigate the crops for just a day. Through this, he
saved his time, effort and money.

With the knowledge he acquired through the digital world,

Andie is becoming one of the digital farmers.
His inclination to digital farming is in line with the objective
of the Digital Farmers Program by the Agricultural Training
Institute-Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02), in
partnership with Smart Communications, Inc. It conducts a
training which aims to draw farmers into digital farming and
help fellows like Andie who has interest in the benefits of
digital farming.

There is
“Agsaludsud ken Google nu awan
ammuk, agrely nak idiay tatta,”
Andres said, pertaining to the
widely used search engine in the
internet.

in agric
He uses his smartphone in
researching. (I will ask Google when
I don’t know something, then I will
rely on its search results.)
Drip Irrigation System at Andie’s Farm.

A farmer to a farmer-trainer

03
Although Andie’s farm has been doing well so far, he knew
that he needs formal training to further develop his farm.
Given the opportunity to be linked with the Agricultural
Training Institute, he did not let it pass. He applied for the
certification of his farm to become a Learning Site for
Agriculture (LSA) during this time, and would become the first
LSA to be ever certified in their locality. Consequently, this
opened another door for Andie.

14
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 Alfonso Castañeda is located six hours away from ATI-RTC 02,
but this did not falter Andie. He attended the 12-day Training of
Trainers on Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds,
and Farm Mechanization on May 2022. As a result, he became

s future
more equipped on inbred rice production.

He wants to use his experiences in the farm and training, and

knowledge on digital farming as backbone in the establishment
of his learning site which is named Leszach Integrated Farm.
He believes that through the learning site, more young and old

culture.
farmers in their municipality will be trained and be equipped with
the same knowledge that he now holds.

Andie may have basically started from scratch in his farming

endeavors, but this did not dishearten him to be a better farmer
and be on par with the success stories of farmers he read on
magazine.

He still has a long way to go as LSA cooperator and a digital

farmer in the making, but he will surely excel in it through his
dedication and passion in agriculture. Andie is a living testament
that by going out of the comfort of traditional farming, one can
effectively succeed moving forward through digital farming.

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 15

 MARSHIA C. SIMEON

“The more I fail, the more I get stronger,” said “Farming has become my daily exercise,”
Rodolfo Marquez, owner of Marquez Integrated Rodolfo expressed in an interview.
Farm and Learning Center located in Diffun,
Quirino. He is one of the innovative Learning Site Being a farmer takes a lot of effort and
for Agriculture (LSA) cooperators in region 2. innovative ideas that will contribute to the
Farming is already a routine for Rodolfo. It was success in agricultural farming. This was proven
one happy day that someone asked him where by Rodolfo as a hands-on farmer. He also said
does he work and he said, “I work in PNB— that a farmer by theory is different from a
Palaging Nasa Bangkag” which means, “always in farmer in action. To him, a lot of things can be
the field”. learned and discovered in the field.

“It is important as a farmer to innovate the

existing technologies by doing research,” he
added.

The Rise Being LSA cooperator is challenging for

Marquez. Along his way as a cooperator, he
Rodolfo is a retired government employee encountered difficult questions from farmers
working as extension worker for 39 years. which led him to explore, make his own
Extension work has always been his passion. After discovery, and also updated his knowledge. He
his retirement, he decided to develop his farm. said that truly, learning is a continuous process.
With his desire to continue what he is passionate
about which is to share knowledge in agriculture
endeavor, Rodolfo became more motivated to The Fall
apply as LSA. Fortunately, in 2018, Rodolfo’s farm
was certified as a learning site by the Agricultural In Diffun, Quirino, according to Rodolfo, corn
Training Institute-Regional Training Center 2. and rice cropping season is synchronous.
Venturing on diversified farming is what made Most of the farmers in his area practice mono
Rodolfo succeed in his endeavor. Diversified cropping. This is why, as an LSA cooperator,
farming has also helped him to adapt to climate Rodolfo recommends to practice integrated or
change. diversified farming so that the farmers will learn

16
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 FEATURE

to maximize their time, potential and land area. Nevertheless, it did not stop him from trying
This recommendation is based from Rodolfo’s again. Meanwhile, he is raising 6 heads of goat
own experience. Before, he also practiced for production.
mono cropping. From there, he realized the
risks especially when there is calamity. In his “You cannot avoid failure but the good thing
experience in mono cropping, he had no is, I never surrender. If I surrender, I’ll lose,”
fall back after his corn production has been Rodolfo said with good hope.
damaged.
During the surge of COVID-19 pandemic,
When Marquez became a learning site Rodolfo apprehended the advantage of
cooperator, he practiced diversified farming integrated farming. He learned the value of
wherein he integrated his corn and rice agricultural farming where food is the most
production with companion crop such as essential need of a person to survive. He
banana which he first tried to plant. He chose was fortunate that during the pandemic, his
banana because it can easily grow and flourish. vegetable production was a success. Rodolfo
However, it can be damaged easily by typhoon was able to have superfluous vegetable
and so, he decided to plant fruit trees like produce. Fifty percent of his produce go to
coconut, rambutan, lansones and mangosteen. In the local market while the other 50% is for
his two-hectare gently rolling land area, Rodolfo their consumption in which, he also shares
is planning to establish a multi-story landscape with his neighborhood. It is also in those times
of his fruit commodities with banana as its main that he supported a community pantry that
product. became a trend during the pandemic.

In 2021, Rodolfo had around 200 heads of ducks. He supplied the community pantry with
Venturing on duck production was also an vegetables such as squash and okra. With his
opportunity for Rodolfo to make salted eggs and own little way, Rodolfo felt fulfilled that he was
sold it in the local market. In every batch of 50 able to help other people especially in his own
ducks, Rodolfo can harvest more than 150 eggs. community.
At present, he is planning to expand it.
More so, he also tried to endeavor on small
ruminants but he failed due to climatic condition.

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 17

 “ Success doesn’t only count
how much money you
earned from something;

”
it’s the fulfillment of
helping others that counts.
-Rodolfo Marquez

18
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
 application of fertilizer is twice only. When
“Success doesn’t only count how much money he attended the Farmers Field School at
you earned from something; it’s the fulfillment Marquez Integrated Farm and Learning Center,
of helping others that counts.” he learned about the staggered fertilizer
application. Alfredo was never hesitant to try
it in his rice production because he has seen
The Revival improvement from Rodolfo’s yield. In fact, he
immediately practiced it in his almost four-
Sustaining his farm, Rodolfo never stopped hectare rice production. In the recent cropping
discovering thing that will help him improve season, Alfredo’s harvest has increased from
his farming practices and strategies. Based on 10 to 15 percent. Also, in his observation upon
his practice before, Marquez used to apply applying fertilizer thrice, there were only few
fertilizer in his rice production twice. He tried undeveloped rice grains compared before
to side dress his rice, then split the fertilizer when he applied twice. Aside from staggered
application from two to three applications. This fertilizer application, Alfredo also learned about
practice of Rodolfo in his farm is based on the the good practices of Rodolfo to include weed
recommendations of the soil analysis. and water management.
To his surprise, the effect of applying fertilizer
in his rice production thrice is much better As an extension worker and a farmer, Marquez
compared to applying it twice. In his own also showed his support to farmers saying,
analysis as a veteran farmer, applying fertilizer “Kahit anong pananim, yung package of
thrice can minimize the infestation of pests technology ang dapat na mai-apply para
on rice. Rodolfo even likened humans to rice. makuha natin yung potential yield at mai-angat
If humans are fed twice, tendency is, they will natin ang corn at rice production na hindi
be overfed for a while then eventually get lugi ang mga magsasaka. Importante na kahit
hungry. In his observation, the same situation will papaano, kumikita tayo sa ating endeavor.”
happen to rice. Rodolfo expressed his gratitude to the
Although, fertilizer application for three times Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training
would cost him much for labor, he testified Center 2 as its partner in delivering extension
that the labor cost paid-off because his yield services.
increased.
“Very timely na mayroon tayong endeavor
“Ang point ko sa pag-apply ng fertilizer ng na ganito dahil at least yung mga extension
tatlong beses, yung efficiency ng abono ay services ay naipapaabot na natin ng malapitan
mas effective dahil nasusustain niya ito. Parang sa mga tao at walang katapusan na extension
kumain siya ng tatlong beses sa isang araw. service,” he uttered.
Hindi tulad kung dalawang beses lang ang
application lalo na sa top dressing, saka side “In my own simple way, I am trying my best to
dressing, eh yung nitrogen madaling mawala,” help our extension workers reach out to more
Rodolfo supposed. farmers,” these were the words of compassion
of Rodolfo Marquez as a show of support to
With Rodolfo’s curiosity and eagerness to the extension workers recognizing their efforts.
discover new practice, he was able to share it He is also challenging his fellow farmers to
with other farmers. Driven as extension worker, share their inputs in the existing technologies
Rodolfo stressed that introducing package and try to discover more to achieve,
of technologies to farmers is crucial. He cited ‘Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita’.
fertilizer application as an example. Even if
the fertilizer that a farmer applied is complete
if the land preparation is a failure, definitely, Marquez is always open to provide technical
corn or even rice production will fail. He then assistance to his fellow farmers. And to those
highlighted that a better result starts from a farmers who are willing to learn from Rodolfo,
good foundation. he is always willing to make himself available
at the “PNB—Palaging Nasa Bangkag”. He then
“Dapat package talaga. Yun ang palagi would like to advice the farmers, “never be
kong sinasabi. Hindi pwedeng isa lang ang afraid to fail because failure will lead you to
pagbuhusan mo. Kagaya ng sinasabi ko, kahit success.”
kumpleto yung abono na nilagay mo kung
hindi maganda ang land preparation mo, yung
fertilizer efficiency, mababa. Kaya sayang lang
yung pera lalo na mahal na ngayon ang abono.”

Alfredo Agapito, resident of Zamora, Quirino

is just one of the farmers who adopted
the technology of Marquez. He has been
farming for 30 years now. Before, his habitual

Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 19

 A Heart for
AGRI
MAICAH CHRISHAINE N. CONSTANTINO

Like other dreamers of agriculture

business, Jehanel Soriano does
not hesitate to pursue her goal:
to be a successful agri-prenuer.
Although there is no overnight
success, Jehanel is motivated.

Her first step towards farming was

when she took Bachelors’ Degree
in Agribusiness at Central Luzon
State University. Upon finishing
college, she applied to DA-CVRC
at Ilagan City, Isabela. Working
in the agriculture sector made
Jehanel appreciate farmers as
essential food producers who are
at the forefront of agriculture. This
made her set aside her corporate
career to experience the life of a
full-time farmer and agri-preneur.
She knew that her heart was set
for agriculture.

Before finally deciding to change

the course of her life at the age
of 24, she was already in farm
business. Jehanel manages an
agriculture supply shop. However,
her farm business journey formally
started when she became a farm
owner. Located at San Juan, Ilagan
City, Isabela, Jehanel built JESLA
Integrated Farm.

A stepping stone to farm life

With the help of the Local

Government Unit – City Agriculture
Office of Ilagan City, Agricultural
Training Institute – Regional
Training Center II (ATI-RTC 02),
and Technical Education and Skills
Development Authority (TESDA),
her farm is a certified farm school
under Rice Competitiveness
Enhancement Fund (RCEF).

The JESLA Integrated Farm

offers Farmers’ Field School on
Production of High-Quality Inbred
Rice, Seed Certification, and Farm
Mechanization to at least 300
farmers now. This prepares farmers
to adapt modern rice farming
technologies, and elevates their
knowledge and skills.

Established in 2020, the one-

hectare farm offers various
commodities such as rice, poultry
(chicken and fish), livestock,
high-value crops, among others.

20
Light Trail Jan-June 2022
Also, their farm offers services Jehanel utilizes social media
platforms such as Facebook,
FEATURE
like fishing, egg-picking, and
technical assistance on organic Instagram, and Youtube. Their
agriculture. Jehanel came up daily posts in Facebook helped of Kapatid Mentor Program
with various projects to improve increase their income on layer (KAMMP)”. This was given during
the farm. production and promote the the conduct of Go Negosyo
farm. Women 2022 Entrepreneurship
To acquire more knowledge Summit on March 11, 2022
and enhance her skills, Jehanel “Napakalaking tulong ng along with other 17 Outstanding
untiringly attended seminars pagpo-post ko sa social media Women. National level
and trainings of ATI-RTC 02 o pagbebenta through online acknowledgement as a strong-
and other partner agencies. dahil mas dumami ang aming woman farmer and entrepreneur
She believes that learning is mga clients at mga sinusuplayan was momentous for Jehanel.
a continuous process which ng itlog. Dito ko nakikita na may
anyone must keep on for kagandahan rin ang paggamit “Ipagpatuloy lang po ninyo
additional knowledge and ng social media para mas ang mga nasimulan niyo,
acquire skills to be better or makilala pa ng nakararami ang mahirap pero dapat kakayanin
even best. tulad kong young agri-preneur,” palagi lalo na kung passion
she said. mo ang farming. At dapat
“Right now, I’m proud to say maging explorer tayo, huwag
that I’m a farmer who is always A graduate of the Training of po tayong mag-stick sa iisang
willing to learn and experience Trainers on Digital Agriculture commodity like rice, dapat lahat
more about farming to teach Course for RCEF (DAC4RCEF) in i-enjoy nating pag-aralan at
the young and aspiring farmers October 2021, Jehanel became mag-engage tayo in different
for our future generation,” she more equipped in applying agriculture field”, she advised
mentioned. digital agriculture in her farm her fellow farmers and agri-
life. She also believes that the preneur.
training benefits farmers by
A young agri-prenuership helping them match the pace Started from empowering
enthusiast with the advancing digital one’s self, Jehanel continues
technologies. helping her fellow farmers to
Aside from managing a farm improve their farm situations.
school, Jehanel ventured into Prior to TOT on DAC4RCEF, Through the heart that beats
egg layer production. As soon Jehanel was already an actual for agriculture, she aims
as this took off, she decided creator for the digital world as to contribute in achieving
to devote her time to farm a vlogger. During the onset of sustainable agriculture and the
business. Amidst the surge of the pandemic, together with best quality of life for people
COVID-19 in 2020, she grew her partner Einar de Mesa, they from all walks of life.

“
her egg business; gaining more started a YouTube channel (@
clients as time passed by. TeamJenarOfficial). Here, they
post their vlogs about farming
She sells fresh white and and agri-business. She uses
brown eggs in trays offering this opportunity to promote
farm gate price to distributors, her business and to encourage
wholesalers, resellers, retailers, people to venture in agriculture.
and consumers. She ensures not ...dapat lahat i-enjoy
any single egg is wasted. She
used broken eggs in making An empowered woman-farmer nating pag-aralan
Leche flan. She also sells cull
chickens. Jehanel was gradually
and agri-preneur
at mag-engage tayo
succeeding in the agri-business As a farm-owner and a in different agriculture

”
world. facilitator, educating the farmers
with the needed knowledge field.
When she sought help from the is one of her desires. It is
Department of Agriculture, she challenging especially when
was given financial assistance she encounters farmers with -Jehanel Soriano
for the expansion of their layer different attitudes, beliefs, and
production through Agri- ages. However, this made her
Negosyo Loan Program (ANYO). more motivated to stick to her
purpose; to empower farmers
“Bilang isang agri-preneur, in achieving better yield and
napakarami kong pangarap na higher income.
gawin pero mahirap talagang
simulan kapag wala kang kapital. A mother of her newborn
Kaya sobrang nagpapasalamat Isabelle which is now one of
ako sa DA dahil nabigyan ako her motivations, Jehanel had
ng oportunidad na palaguin pa another milestone. She was
ang layer production business awarded with the ‘Go Negosyo
ko sa pamamagitan ng kanilang Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneur
mga programa na ino-offer na for 2022’ grant with “Most
nakakatulong sa mga farmers na Promising Microenterprise”
katulad ko,” she shared.
To grow her client reach,
Jan-June 2022 Light Trail 21
 OA Hacks
OA Hacks
OA Hacks
Vermicomposting
work with worms

The process of converting biodegradble

farm wastes and other household wastes into
compost (organic fertilizer) through the action
of earthworms.

Importance
1. Enrich soils with organic matter
which comes from biodegradable Cover
materials

2. Excellent soil enhancer and

bioactive fertilizer for organic farming

Worm casting plastic screen mesh

Start your own (compost)
Vermicompost at home
because it’s easy!
1. Prepare/obtain a bin

2. Gather and prepare materials

like farm, garden, or kitchen
wastes. Put in the bin. earthworms

3. Add water in the materials

that has less than 60% moisture active areas
depending on the dryness of the with scraps
material and worms
4. Stock the worms. One kilogram
of earthworms (about 1,000
pieces) for every 1m sq. of
vermibed that contains 100-200
kilograms of materials/substrates.

5. Maintain the bin with least 60%

moisture level and protect the 20 cm
earthworms from its predators.
vermi wash
collection 30 cm 40 cm
6. Harvest the vermicompost
after 30-45 days.

7. Properly pack and store the

vermicompost.

Subject Matter Specialists: Written and Illustrated by:

Annaliza S. Claveron, PhD Shaye C. Fontanilla
Ricky Valdez

22 Light Trail Jan-June 2022

 GAD Corner
GAD Corner Gender and Development

2022 First Semester Highlights

Happy National Women’s Month!

ATI-RTC 02 staff members raised their placards containing Sustainable Development Goal statements
as a sign of joining the National Women’s Month celebration (NWMC) program kick off which were
conducted by respective government agencies in the whole country simultaneously on February 28,
2022.

“I believe we celebrate women’s month in recognition of being empowered,” said Dr. Claris M. Alaska,
OIC-Assistant Center Director, referring to the women staff of the center during her support speech.

Engr. Fhrea Guzman and Jei-ar Limos also stated their support statements to all women.

Meanwhile, ATI-RTC 02 Center Director Imelda M. Guillermo expressed her delight in the conduct of the
celebration and shared the strengths of being a woman during her opening remarks.

This year marks the end of the 6-year theme of NWMC which is “We Make Change Work for Women”,
and the onset of the sub-theme: “Agenda ng Kababihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran.”