The Official Publication of the Agricultural Training Institute- Region

National Year of Rice

launch in Caraga

P resident Benigno Aquino III’s declaration of 2013 as the National Year of Rice under Proclamation no. 494 dated October 18, 2012 enjoins the cooperation of the different line agencies of the De- partment of Agriculture and to further in- Secretary Proceso J. Alcala responds to the queries of the farmers during tensify its efforts to attain not only rice- the Forum held on May 23, 2013 at Veruela, . sufficiency but more importantly Food Staples sufficiency. DA Secretary and party visit LGU As a support, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Unit 13 con- Veruela, Agusan del Sur ducted the regional launching of National Year of Rice 2013 on February 22, 2013 he Local Govern- messenger. Secretary Alcala ment of Veruela, saw the agricultural potential during the 18th Caraga Anniversary at the T Agusan del Sur headed by the of the place and said that Covered Court, Capitol Compound, Bu- Municipal Mayor Salimar T. through further assistance tuan City. It was attended by the various Mondejar together with Mayor that will be provided through line agencies of the DA as well as the Pro- Edwin G. Elorde of the Munic- the Department of Agriculture vincial and Municipal Agricultural Offices. ipality of was - Regional Field Unit 13, tan- Another highlight of the affair was thankful for the visit of the gible increase in agricultural the formation of the Provincial Manage- Department of Agriculture productivity will be attained. ment Team to conduct Usapang-Palay, a Secretary Proceso J. Alcala Secretary Alcala as rice-information and technology updates last May 23, 2013. Secretary well as the DA-Regional Exec- forum which aims to provide an avenue Alcala led the Farmer’s Forum utive Director Edna M. for the farmers to discuss rice technolo- and answered all the ques- Mabeza were very thankful for gies as well as other problems/issues rel- tions and inquiries brought the presence of the different ative to rice productivity which will be ad- up by the farmers. heads from the Department of dressed by the line agencies of the DA Secretary Alcala fur- Agriculture line bureaus. This concerned. ther mentioned that he was full force visit of the Secretary Expectedly, more information cam- tasked by President Benigno shows that the Department of paigns and activities have been lined-up Aquino to visit all sectors and Agriculture and its line bu- this year onwards to enhance farmer’s in- individuals involved in agri- reaus are committed in their terest in farming and encourage them to culture specially the farmers task in improving the agricul- adopt appropriate and sustainable tech- all over the country. In such ture and the lives of all the way all agricultural concerns farmers as well (FVABabanto). nologies to improve productivity in all area will be addressed (MBSalve). properly having him as the

This year’s physical target of ATI-13 was barely 60% far less than our total accomplishments in 2012. For whatever rea- sons, at first we felt a little relief for we thought it would some- how lighten the work loads of our key personnel considering their limited number.

But much to our surprise, it did not change a thing. Yes, it was just the figure that varied but the passion to serve and the hardwork of our staff has always been the same. The inten- sity of perseverance and dedication of having things done as scheduled and programmed stood firm.

Our source of inspiration through all these was the overwhelming fervour of our stakeholders to enhance their knowledge and skills in the different areas of agricultural development. Even our brothers and sisters with physical incapacities showed that learn- ing goes beyond limits and disabilities were never a hindrance as they actively participat- ed in one of our Trainings in Organic Agriculture. Our senior citizen’s equally-strong de- sire for advancement of their knowledge as they performed the hands-on exercises on the various concoctions was indeed commendable.

Thus, we were inspired to even widen the horizon for our training and related activ- ities not only to the diverse group of trainees we have catered, but for the development of various commodities like rice, corn, high value crops and other fields such as livestock and poultry.

More importantly, we pursued not only training on production but also skills train- ing on food processing of soybean, fish, coco and meat for the members of Rural Improve- ment Clubs and 4-H clubs. We firmly believe that processing can provide additional in- come and enhance livelihood opportunities.

To all our work partners in these noble undertaking, we are greatly indebted. We hope that our partnership and dedication to effectively deliver the services to our stake- holders continues through times.

NENITA D. SUMILE, Ed. D.

Center Director Broadening perspective for OA advocacy batches farmer-level training with 70 participants from , and ; Organic Upland Rice Production last May 21-23, 2013 at Trento, Agusan del Sur; Organic Vegeta- ble Production last May 23-25 at ATI Center; and 2 batches of Training on Organic Agriculture -Nature Farming Technology System for the Senior Citi- zen and Persons with Disabilities last April 24-26 and June 25-27, respectively. Mr. Ramon Peñaloza shares their management A group of Senior Citizen-participants set the ingredi- practices during the Field tour of FFS facilitators ents for Fermented Plant Juice preparation during the Moreover, 44 farmers of Carromata, at Peñaloza Farm, Victorias City on May 28, 2013. Training on OA at on April 25-26. San Miguel, undergone the Season-Long Farmers Field School s ATI-13 continuously advances the on Organic Rice Production which culminated last promotion of Organic Agriculture, this A May 27, 2013. On the other hand, the center also semester the advocacy was expanded to other com- believed that the frontliners in extension delivery modities, field and stakeholders in the region. must be equipped with the necessary knowledge From January to June, ATI-13 conducted a and updated on organic farming so that they can total of 8 trainings namely Training on Organic effectively guide the farmers. Thus, 30 FFS facilita- Soybean Production with no less than Mr. Elmer tors and implementers region-wide were exposed to Enicola, a scientist and expert of the crop from the various organic farms in Bacolod and Negros UPLB as Resource Speaker. Twenty-eight (28) Mu- Occidental last May 27-June 1 for an Enhance- nicipal Nutrition Action Officer (MNAO) from all ment Training. over Caraga were trained and updated on the lat- Last year, the center accomplished 50 est technology of soybean and its by-products; batches of Training on OA-NFTS and 10 technical Training of Trainers on Organic Swine and Poultry briefings (NDGanso). last May 8-10 for 35 livestock coordinators and 2 DA-ATI scholars graduate with flying colors total of fifteen (15) scholars under Miguel Campus, Carromata, San Miguel, Suri- A the Youth in Agriculture and Fisher- gao del Sur and 5 from Caraga State Universi- ies Program (YAFP) and 3 Agricultural Technol- ty, Ampayon, Butuan City. ogists under the Expanded Human Resource Remarkably, 2 from among the scholars Development Program (EHRDP) simultaneously in SDSSU-Lianga graduated with exemplary graduated from the Surigao del Sur State Uni- academic performances. Mr. Joren F. Alutaya versity (SDSSU) and Caraga State University graduated cum laude with a degree Bachelor of (CSU) on April 3-4, 2013. All three EHRDP Science in Fisheries while Mr. Jimmy C. Recor- scholars namely Ms. Elena S. Bausing of the ba, also taking up BS Fisheries received an Ac- Office of the Provincial Agriculturist – Agusan ademic Performance Award. del Sur, Ms. Maria Cecelia P. Sabanpan of LGU Heartwarmingly, the scholars conveyed -Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte and Ms. Tijani B. their gratitude being grantees of the scholar- Auxterio of the Provincial Agriculture Office – ship program in which their dreams for a qual- Agusan del Norte have completed the require- ity education have become a vivid reality. With ments for Masteral Studies in Crop Science at the program, they were able to lighten the fi- CSU. Of the 15 YAFP grantees from CY 2009- nancial burden of their families and even sent 2013, 7 were from SDSSU-Lianga Campus, their siblings to school out of their stipends Lianga, Surigao del Sur, 3 from SDSSU-San (MBSalve). 2013 Regional Farm Family Forum RBO supports Food Staples Sufficiency Program advocacy Celebration: A success elected RBO leaders Siyentista. S and focal persons ATI-13 however ad- convened last April 29-May 2, vanced the implementation of 2013 at Bayview Park Hotel, its targets upon the conduct of Manila for the “National Plan- Science and Technology Forum ning on Harmonizing and on June 18, 2013 at Strategizing Support to the City during the 48th Araw ng Food Staples Sufficiency Pro- Surigao del Sur celebration, in gram.” cooperation with the Office the Together they formulate Provincial Agriculturist. plans and other appropriate The paramount goal of interventions as well as its im- the government to provide suffi- Mr. Melvin Samblasenio of Agusan del Sur, displays his 1st prize plementation mechanics and cient and affordable food cannot winning artwork in the modified poster-making contest with the strategies. For Caraga region, be ensured by simply focusing guests during the awarding ceremony of the RFFF. some of the activities pro- on various agricultural inter- The DA-Regional Field Unit 13 and ATI- grammed for implementation ventions, but more importantly Caraga jointly hosted the 2013 Regional Farm from July to August this year on the responsive and active Family Forum (RFFF) last May 15-16, 2013 at include: Consultative Meeting participation of LGUs and Rural Luciana Convention Center, Butuan City. One with the farmers and Indige- -based Organizations composed hundred seventy nine (179) delegates composed of Agricultural Extension Workers, 4-H Club nous People; Training on Root- of P4MP, RIC and the 4-H Clubs members, Pambansang Mananalon-Mag-uuma- crops Processing; Technical being the key players in the ag- Magbabaul-Magsasaka sa Pilipinas (P4MP) and Briefings, fora and establish- ricultural development the Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs) from the ment of learning sites for the (MBSalve). cities and provinces of the region, including some P4MP and Magsasaka representatives from SUC and PhilRice, graced the event. Skills Training for RBOs business venture The RFFF showcased the talents and skills of the Rural-based Organizations (RBOs) he Department through the various major contests they contend- T of Agriculture ed which include Rootcrop Processing (kakanin), envisions self-reliant Rice-based Product Development, Processed Live- Rural-Based Organiza- stock and Poultry with labeling/packaging and tions (RBOs) by engag- handicraft making using indigenous materials. ing in entrepreneurial Minor contests also include Modified Poster Mak- activities making busi- ing, Extemporaneous speaking, quiz bee, OPM ness out of agriculture. Singing Contest and Balak. Once again, Butuan As such, various inter- City was hailed as the Over-all Champion among ventions and support Participants on their hands on activities with the help on the the 7 competing teams – Agusan del Norte, Agu- services have been ex- RPs, Facilitator & Management Staff san del Sur, City, Dinagat Island, Surigao tended to the 4-H club City, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur. members, Rural Improvement return demo on Pork and Chicken Clubs, and P4MPs. Nuggets, chicken and pork tocino, In line with the celebration of the Nation- skinless chicken longganisa, pork al Year for Rice, the DA-RFU also sponsored 2 Among these interventions ini- and chicken embutido and quick- contests for the 4-H and RIC – the NYR Rice Sta- tiated by ATI-RTC 13 in coordina- cured pork ham. ples and Rice-based kakanin. tion with the Local Government Units were the 3 batches of Skills Moreover, a Hands-on Training This year’s theme “Dynamic Farm Fami- training. These include Skills on Food Processing (Coco/Fish) ly: Partner towards Sustainable Livelihood and Training on Meat Processing con- was conducted last April 16-18 at Progress” reflected the need to continually har- ducted on March 13-15, 2013 at San Pedro gym, Alegria, Surigao del ness the potentials, skills and capabilities of each Basilisa, Dinagat Island and anoth- Norte which was participated by 50 member of the farm family, encourage participa- er batch was held on May 29-31 at 4-H’ers and RIC members. tion of the dynamic leaders, policy-makers and ATI Center, Los Angeles, Butuan entrepreneurs in agricultural development in or- City. Sixty four (64) RIC and 4-H As it has been said that “Big der to sustain the various enterprise development things start small,” ATI hopes that projects provided by the government which aimed club members learned the basic concepts and principles of animal the RBOs would immediately take at uplifting the living standards and genuine pro- jumpstart what has been learned gress in agricultural sector, not only of the farm product utilization and processing, as well as improving its quality from the training by engaging into family but the entire community as well meat processing business on a (MBSalve). standard and value-adding. The participants performed hands-on/ small-scale basis (MBSalve). HVCDP caters 330 trainees this semester hree hundred T thirty three (330) individuals furthered their learning on produc- tion and processing of the various high value crops from the 11 batches of training conducted by ATI- 13 last February to May 2013. The participants were composed of Agricul- tural Technologists, farm- ers, Agricultural Workers, and Rural Im- provement Club (RICs) members from all over the region. Said trainings in- Trainees perform various hands-on exercises during trainings under the High clude 3 batches of Train- Value Crops Development Program. ing Course on Off-Season tries were fundamental to the solution of the Vegetable Production conducted last February most serious problems of improving food sup- 12-28 at ATI Center; 3 batches Sustainable plies and providing employment, especially in Banana (Saba) Production last March 6-22; rural areas. Training on Soybean Production last April 16- 18, 2013 at Mt. Bagarabon Hotel and Moun- Thus, a Skills Training on Soybean Pro- tain Resort, Mabua, Surigao City; Training cessing was conducted last April 23-25, 2013. Course on Cacao Production last May 15-17 Thirty-two (32) farmers and RIC members per- at ATI Center; and 2 batches of Training on formed the procedures of processing soybean Rubber Production last May 21-23 and May products and by-products that were skillfully 28-30 at Pagkain ng Bayan, City, demonstrated by Ms. Amada Almeda, Senior Agusan del Sur. Home Management Specialist from OPAG- Surigao del Sur while her colleague, Mr. ATI however believed that the advance- Achilles L. Belarmino comprehensively dis- ment of knowledge in production alone is not cussed the soybean utilization as feeds. enough if we are to attain agricultural devel- opment. Even the Food and Agriculture Or- The development of the various high value ganization of the UN stressed that the food crops is one of the priority thrusts of the gov- and agricultural products processing indus- ernment (MBSalve). within Caraga. It only shows ATI-13 trains new set of BAWs that more LGUs are convinced that mobilizing the impact farmers in the delivery of ex- tension services is an effective strategy in filling the gaps be- tween limited numbers of Agri- cultural Extension Workers in the provision of services and other interventions to the com- A BAW from Veruela presents their The new set of BAWs from Lingig, Surigao munity (MBSalve). action plan for critiquing. del Sur pose with their coordinators and ATI staff

TI-Caraga hosted 2 batches of En- Good Governance in Higher A terprise Development Training for Education means prioritizing BAWs last April 2-4 and April 4-6, 2013 at ATI education Center, Los Angeles, Butuan City. The sixty-six (66) BAW-participants were TI Director Asterio P. Saliot graced A the graduation ceremony of the Su- from the municipalities of , Rosario rigao del Sur State University-Tagbina and and Veruela of Agusan del Sur and Lingig for Lianga campuses last April 3, 2013. Surigao del Sur together with their coordina- In his commencement speech, Director tors. Asterio P. Saliot emphasized that good govern- ance in higher education simply implies priori- Though these BAWs were already func- tizing education thereby ensuring that its qual- tioning as work-partners of the Agricultural ity is at par excellence and that is accessible to Extension Workers in their respective localities, every Filipino. Good governance entails creat- ing a system that is student-centered, excel- still the LGUs through ATI-13 acknowledged lence-oriented, and is inclusive, responsive, the need to enhance their capabilities on farm- and flexible to the changing needs of the socie- ing systems, formation of production team, ty. He therefore challenged the University Offi- demo farm establishment and extension ap- cials and staff to continuously endeavor to sus- proaches. tain quality and excellence in higher education. Education aside from being a right is a Same as the previous training for BAWs, vital tool not only for self-improvement but also they were made to prepare and present an ac- in advancing the socio-economic status of the country. tion plan for their project or activities based on In closing, the Director encouraged the lectures and field observation at ATI’s very own graduates to live up to the standards of their learning site. The management believed that Alma Mater. Having all their learning and expe- establishing a return-demo will reap increased riences in college as their weapons in facing the appreciation among the neighboring farmers tests upon entering the complicated world of the working class and as the future leaders of and eventually encourage the adoption for they the Motherland, Director Saliot finally encour- will be able to see first-hand the practices and aged them to always aim high, to be of service technologies suitable in the local conditions. and be an asset in bringing about progress by practicing and sharing their knowledge to oth- Per record of ATI, to date there are 339 ers (MBSalve). BAWs mobilized in the different municipalities Fostering gender equality among local officials

ender and Develop- tuan City. Partici- G ment (GAD) ap- pants of the training proach is not concerned specifi- include Barangay Of- cally with women, but on how ficials from Sumili- society assigns roles, responsi- hon, Butuan City and bilities and expectations to selected ATI staff. Dr. Genaro Japos discusses some gender issues and both men & women. GAD ap- challenges during the Training on GAD held on March Dr. Genaro V. 18, 2013 at ATI Center, Los Angeles, Butuan City. plies gender analysis to uncov- Japos, Resource er the ways in which men & and community relationships. Speaker comprehensively dis- women work together, present- It even opened their minds and cussed the different topics such ing results in neutral terms of hearts of valuing equal treat- as Understanding differences economics & efficiency. ment and opportunities for men between men and women, Sex and women. Worth-noting, the Recognizing the im- and Gender, Self- Barangay Council together with portance of spreading the gen- Understanding as a Person and the Punong Barangay was even der-friendly approach in its the gender issues and challeng- encouraged to make Legislative general sense and responding es we are facing nowadays. Agenda for the welfare of the to various gender issues and One of the participants, people in their barangay taking concerns, ATI-RTC 13 conduct- Hon. Roel Valdo, Barangay Ka- into account the equality ed a Training on Gender and gawad of Sumilihon expressed among men and women in all Development last March 18-20 that the training has enriched aspects of development at ATI Center, Los Angeles, Bu- his understanding on family (LTCalipes). BAWs to acquire National Competency accreditation from TESDA ecognizing the invaluable contribution of tension Worker through the National Competen- R the Barangay Agricultural Workers in ex- cy Examination (NC) from the TESDA. Being the tension delivery, ATI management intends to link work-partners of the Agricultural Technologists, them with the Technical Education and Skills it is but right and timely to harness the full po- Development Authority (TESDA) just like that of tential, enhance the capabilities and boosts self- the School for Practical Agriculture (SPA). SPA is esteem of the BAWs. a ladderized education program launched by ATI While the NC accreditation program for to serve as a venue for information-sharing and BAWs is still on process, the ATI management technology-transfer where qualified farmers commits to provide them with support services served as teachers or trainers and the farmers’ such as Life/Health Insurance from the Philip- farm becomes the learning site. pine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) aside As pronounced by Director Asterio P. Sali- from the accident insurance and hopefully with ot during the opening program for Training the Social Security System (SSS) as an add-on Course on Enterprise Development last April 2, incentive package not only for SPA accredited 2013, that “Farmers are the Best Teachers,” to farmers but also to the regular BAWs. There are his co-farmers in the respective localities. Hence, series of activities still be conducted in prepara- there is a need to acquire a certification as Ex- tion with the BAWs accreditation program. Introducing Agritecture ATI retirees undergo livelihood and for sustainable habitat entrepreneurial training

he Architecture Association etiring person- R nel from the ATI T of the spear- network were headed the conduct of Training trained on livelihood Course on Produktibong Pinoy Strat- and entrepreneurial egy cum Agritecture for Sustainable training conducted Habitat or ASH on March 4-8, 2013 by the Central Office at Peñaloza Farm, Victorias City, Ne- last March 2013. The 3rd batch gros Occidental. Generally, the train- of Enterprise Devel- ing introduces the merger of architec- opment Training ture and agriculture in terms of de- was conducted last Mr. Abdon Mantilla, Training Specialist II of ATI-13, shares one sign in such a way that farm produc- strategy in asset management during the workshop session of March 12-14, 2013 tivity is maximized regardless of the the Enterprise Development Training on March 12-14, 2013 at ATI Central Of- farm size. Moreover, it supports the fice, Diliman, Que- zon City and Costales Nature Farms in Majayjay, Laguna. The government’s thrust of ensuring that simulation exercises enhanced the participants’ ability to rec- sufficient supply of safe foods are ognize their available resources and identifying strategies for readily available for the Filipino fami- asset management and in preparing a business plan. lies by promoting edible gardening. As for Mr. Abdon Mantilla and Ms. Milagros Caluya, retir- ees from ATI-RTC 13 who were among the 35 participants of ATI-RTC 13 was represented the training, the exposure and hands-on workshops at Cos- by Mr. Flordicante Labor, P4MP Re- tales Nature Farm was very relevant especially so that it not gional Federation President and Mr. only added more ideas but also encouraged them that going into organic farming is a very lucrative venture. Abdon Mantilla, Training Specialist II. Meanwhile, another set of retirees attended the Integrated Organic Training conducted by the ATI-Central Office on March 11-15, 2013 which was also held at Costales Nature Farm. The Developing pool of trainers participants affirmed that Organic Agriculture is one of the for Philippine GAP advocacy promising, viable and profitable businesses as they observed the features and practices of Costales being a certified organic n anticipation of the open market farm and the first Agri-tourism destination in the Philippines I or free trade especially on the accredited by the Department of Tourism. exportation of various Philippine horticul- The training provided the retirees with livelihood alter- tural products, the Government is dou- natives as they take a leap in separating from service upon full bling its effort in ensuring that a Quality implementation of the Government’s Rationalization Plan Assurance Program is at hand. (ARMantilla). The government therefore admits the need for embracing the Good Agricultural Prac- -5, 2013 at the Big 8 Corporate Hotel, Tagum City. tices (GAP) in all our products particularly on fruits A total of forty-four (44) HVCDP focals/alternate and vegetables. In GAP, the whole supply chain focal persons and selected personnel from the Bu- that is from production to processing is considered reau of Plant Industry – Plant Quarantine Services as to its food safety, quality, environmental protec- (BPI-PQS) attended the training conducted by the tion and workers safety. members of the Technical Working Group of the Philippine GAP Program. ATI-Caraga was represent- In promoting this holistic approach on ed by Mr. Heracleo A. Paler, Agriculturist II/HVCDP product assurance, ATI recognized the need to aug- Focal Person. ment the technical capacities of the personnel to be involved in the campaign in the provisions of the These trainees are expected to serve as re- standards and its certification protocol. Thus, ATI source speakers in the succeeding trainings for the conducted a Training of Trainers on Good Agricul- promotion of the GAP program (MBSalve) tural Practices for Fruits and Vegetables last April 1 Livestock stakeholders ivestock raisers and stakeholders region-wide gathered L for a Consultative Meeting conducted by the Agricul- speak their needs tural Training Institute – 13 in cooperation with the provincial, municipal and city Veterinary Offices from March to April 2013. One hundred twenty three (123) individuals composed of live- stock raisers, Agricultural Technologists, Veterinarians and Ba- rangay Officials attended the meetings in 4 separate sites on the following schedules: March 19, 2013 at the Provincial Integrated Demo-Farm and Training Center, Cancohoy, Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte; March 20 in Surigao City; March 21 in Cuarenta, San Jose, Dinagat Island and in Tandag City on April 11, 2013. The activity provided updates on the provincial livestock development program and harmonized issues/concerns with cor- Dr. Aimee A. Jemino, Provincial Veterinarian of responding recommendations straight from the livestock raisers Dinagat Island presents the plans and programs for themselves. the development of the industry in the province. Seeing the bright prospects of livestock integrated to crop production, the government through the Department of Agricul- ture ensures the availability of various interventions for the livestock sector to enhance production and the quality of animal products and by-products. These interventions do not only include the provision of updated production technology but also other support services such as infrastructures. One of the most common issues raised was the high cost of commercial feeds thus recommending for the production of their own feeds utilizing the indigenous feedstuffs that are readily available in the locality. Moreover, they noted that the establishment of a mini-feed mill facility and a conduct of training on basic feed production would be very helpful. More importantly, there is a dire need to revitalize live- stock raisers associations who have become non-functional for years. Though ATI caters only the training-needs support for the raisers, it assures however that through the consultative meetings, the next plan of action of the livestock program are suited for the stakeholder’s needs (MBSalve). 30 ATs and BAWs train on Season- Long TOT on IPM for corn hirty (30) Agricultural 11, 2013. Hence, the Project Of- T Technologists (ATs) ficer, Mr. Ricardo N. Abao was and Barangay Agricultural ably assisted by municipal coun- Workers (BAWs) trained on Inte- terparts who served as facilitators grated Pest Management for and Resource Persons during the TOTs collect cropcut samples during the Corn at the Municipal Agricul- whole duration of the TOT. Facili- Field Day on June 28, 2013 at tural Training Center, Esperan- tators include Mr. Nilo Villamor of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur. za, Agusan del Sur. LGU-, Ms. Jovie Ego- detasseling, detasseling of infest- The trainees were com- ugan, Mr. Ismael Saguran, Ms. ed tassel only, use of posed of 25 ATs - 8 coming from Aida Diaz and Mr. Teodoro Ortega trichograma, farmers practice Agusan del Sur, 6 from Agusan all from the host municipality and the use of Oriental Herbal del Norte, 5 from Surigao del (Esperanza, Agusan del Sur). Nutrients (OHN), planting dis- Norte and 6 from Surigao del A Field Day was success- tance and seeding rate. Sur and 5 Barangay Agricultural ful hosted on June 28, 2013 This in-depth seed to seed Workers (BAWs) from Agusan del showcasing the various studies of training which will culminate on Sur. the TOTs as part of their require- July 19, 2013 aimed to enhance Said training was the 1st ment on Participatory Technology the knowledge and skills of the Season-Long Training of Trainers Development. These studies in- AEWs in corn production so they (TOT) on corn production con- clude the different levels of appli- can confidently assist and guide ducted by Agricultural Training cation of organic, inorganic, com- the local growers in improving the Institute which started last March bined organic and inorganic, 75% productivity of this commodity. ATI-13 organizes the Techno Gabay’s Technical Working Committee ursuant Formation of TWC was conducted last January 22, P to the 2013 at ATI Training Center, Los Angeles, Butuan implementa- City. The member-Regional Offices were duly repre- tion of the sented by Engr. Ramil Sanchez of CHED, Mr. Luth Techno Edmund M. Apresto of DILG, and Mr. Rodel G. Pa- Gabay Pro- sion of CCARD, while Dr. Nenita D. Sumile was rep- gram (TGP) resented by the whole technical staff with the e- by virtue of Extension Coordinator, Mr. Fil Victor A. Babanto. Mr. Fil Victor A. Babanto, e-Extension coordinator reviews the E.O. 801 During the meeting, the TGP framework and implementing rules and regulations of TGP before the representa- tives of the Technical Working Committee. titled: its updates were reviewed. Delineation of functions was also presented as provided in the IRR. Moreover, “Encouraging Local Government Units (LGUs) to it also served as venue for harmonizing issues and adopt the Techno-Gabay in their Agricultural Exten- concerns relative to the previous implementation of sion Programs and the Concerned Government Agen- TGP. Although the TWC outlined some guiding poli- cies to Provide the Required Assistance for the Pur- cies, another meeting will soon be called for a thor- pose,” the government set the Implementing Rules ough discussion and formulation of policies to im- and Regulations (IRR) to serve as guidance. prove the operationalization of the program. As provided in the IRR, a Technical Working As ATI assumes full responsibility in the in- Committee (TWC) must be set up to provide technical stitutionalization of the FITS Centers and MS assistance and oversee the operationalization of the strengthening, we are counting on our work-partners program. Along this line, an Orientation Meeting and in e-Extension delivery services (MBSalve). also covers the neighboring LGUs namely Baya- ATI-13 conducts 2 School-on-the Air bas, Cagwait, Cortes and Tandag City. Two program in Surigao provinces months after its airing, ATI-Caraga conducted a Mid-Assessment of the program last June 11 at ver one thou- Selades Appartelle, Mabua, Tandag City. sand (1,000) O Meanwhile, the SOA on Organic Agricul- farmers from Suri- ture anchored by gao del Norte and Ms. Zenaida Per- Surigao del Sur en- amide, Agriculturist rolled in two School- II was started last on-the-Air (SOA) June 13 covering 10 programs conducted LGUs within Surigao Municipal coordinators update the status of their by ATI-Caraga in co- del Norte which in- enrollees during the Mid-Assessment of the SOA ordination with the on Soybean Production held at Selades Appar- clude Alegria, Bac- telle, Tandag City on June 11, 2013. Provincial Agricul- uag, Claver, Gigaq- ture Offices and Lo- uit, Mainit, Malimo- cal Government Units (LGUs). These programs Mr. Samuel L. Calonzo encourages participa- no, Placer, San tion of the Local Government Units in the include SOA on Soybean Production and SOA on advocacy on Organic Agriculture through the Francisco, Sison, Organic Agriculture which were started during the Scool-on-the-Air program. Tagana-an, Tubod 2nd quarter of this year. and Surigao City. The SOA on Soybean Production launched The SOA on Soybean will have its final air- on March 1, 2013 was aired over DXVP-97.5 Sure ing on June 24. The mass graduation is scheduled FM in Tandag City starting April 3 from 5:00 – on August 16, 2013. On the other hand, SOA on 6:00 in the morning until every Wednesdays Organic Agriculture is expected to culminate on thereafter for 16 weeks sessions. The program en- October. titled “Bulawanong Binhi” (Golden Grain) is an- chored by Mr. Japhet Sugian, Provincial Infor- July of last year, ATI-Caraga also conduct- mation Officer from the Office of the Provincial Ag- ed a SOA on Organic Agriculture in the 6 munici- riculturist. Other than San Miguel and Tago being palities within Agusan del Sur with a total of 428 the soybean-producing municipalities, the SOA graduates.

inally, Agusan del Sur State ducted last February 20, 2013 at the High F College of Agriculture and School ICT Laboratory, ASSCAT, Bunawan, Technology (ASSCAT) steps-up into the world of Agusan del Sur. A total of twenty-four faculty e-extension. Dr. Nenita D. Sumile, Center Direc- and staff of ASSCAT were oriented with the vari- tor of ATI 13 and Dr. Juarlito V. Garcines, PAE, ous components of the e-extension specifically President II of ASSCAT signed the Memorandum on e-Learning. As starter, the faculty and staff of Agreement (MOA) on incorporating e-Learning involved in the program already enrolled and modality in their Agriculture curriculum last explored their preferred courses during the ori- June 13, 2013. entation. Per agreement with the management, these faculty will take charge in briefing the will -be student-enrollees. ASSCAT is actually the 3rd State College in this region to embrace e-Learning, along with Caraga State University, Ampayon, Butuan City and Surigao del Sur State University-Tagbina Campus, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur. ATI-Caraga envisions reaching more and more e-Learners thus further linkages will be established among other universities and enti- ties with a belief that the privileges of learning should be maximized and be extended to vari- Faculty and Staff of Agusan del Sur Sate College of Agriculture and Tech- ous stakeholders (MBSalve). nology takes the e-learning courses during the briefing on February 20, 2013 at the High School Laboratory, ASSCAT, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. ASSCAT management is convinced that an electronic instructional approached comple- ments the traditional face-to-face method of teaching in a flexible, self-paced and unique way of learning with the aid computer and inter- net. Dr. Juarlito V. Garcines, PAE, President II through Dr. Belen dela Peña, Vice President for Register and Enroll Now! Academic Affairs ensures that this free and Visit: www.e-extension.gov.ph quick access to various online courses offered by ATI is not limited only to Agriculture stu- dents and faculty but also among others who are willing to broaden their knowledge in agri- culture, fishery and other related fields. URL: http://www.ati.da.gov.ph/caraga

Earlier, an Orientation/Briefing was con- E-mail: [email protected] New batch of Local Farmer Technicians train on Rice Production

n continuing its task being the lead rice production technologies, social technol- I agency for the extension activities ogies, economics of rice production as well of the Rice Program, ATI-Caraga trained the as facilitation and communication skills. new set of Local Farmer Technicians (LFTs) composed of twenty (20) qualified farmers These new set of LFTs will join the or rice achievers identified by the DA- core of qualified and trained rice farmers Regional Field Unit 13. They were from the who will serve as partners and active play- municipalities of Las Nieves, Agusan del ers in the development and promotion of Norte; Lanuza and Barobo of Surigao del modern irrigated rice production and post- Sur; Basilisa, Dinagat Island; Bacuag, Suri- production technologies. Being extension gao del Norte; Talacogon, Veruela and Ro- workers themselves, the LFTs are to carry sario of Agusan del Sur, and Butuan City. out significant role in strengthening agricul- tural extension services, thus more capabil- The 5-day intensive training entitled ity-build up trainings are lined up for them “Training Course on Rice Production for to ensure their readiness and confidence as LFTs – Phase 1 held at San Lorenzo Pasto- model farmers and trainers in their respec- ral Formation Center, Ampayon, Butuan tive localities (MBSalve). City last April 7-12, 2013 was focused on ATI enhances FFARMS projects production area area for horse raddish or ma- for GAS (Pomacea lunggay. Aside from its nutri- canaliculata) pop- tional attributes as leafy vege- ularly known as table, it has a potential market “Golden Kuhol” for processing as moringa tea was established and capsule for health benefit. early January this Moreover, the crop thrives best year purposely to in the local weather condition. feed on the Another project added was the Golden Apple Snail raising, an add-on project of ATI’s Pateros ducks sexual propagation of cacao. To School for Practical Agriculture. raised and a com- date, almost 800 pieces of ponent of the planting materials were ready n an effort to better Farm Family Approach for Re- for distribution or to be sold “at I improve its services, source Management for Sus- sold.” ATI-Caraga enhances the pro- tainability (FFARMS). Though ject component of the Farm GAS is considered one of the True to its advocacy, the Family Approach on Resource pest problems in rice produc- center continually upholds the Management for Sustainability tion, it can also serve other promotion and adoption of a (FFARMS). These add-on pro- purpose as supplementary feed sustainable farming system ject components include Gold- for poultry animals. Aside from through the Farm Family Ap- en Apple Snail (GAS) raising, its high protein content, its proach on Resource Manage- production of planting materi- shell is rich in calcium which is ment for Sustainability als for cacao in its mini-nursery good for egg development. (FFARMS) concept. Expectedly and horse radish or Malunggay. more projects are coming in the On the other hand, the future (MBSalve). A 100 sq. m. (4 x 25 m) center enhanced the production Agriculture students from neighboring SUCs choose ATI for practicum

uration and type of internship D however varies with their cours- es. BAT students were required to undergo 4 months exposure to different agriculture- related works for an equivalent of 720 hours under the Occupational Internship Program (OIP), a total of 320 working hours for BSAM students while BSA students were only required a 1 month practicum.

The interns carried out hands-on ac- tivities on the cultural management practic- es for crops (rice, banana, vegetable, fruits, The OJTs undertake their routinary activities on the manage- ment practices of the various project components of the SPA. etc.), poultry (native chicken and ducks) and livestock (swine) through the different griculture students from Caraga project components within the SPA. They A State University (CSU), Ampayon, were ably supervised by Mr. Carlos C. Butuan City and Agusan del Sur State State Salcedo, Senior Agriculturist. College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), Bunawan, Agusan del Sur pre- The internship/practicum is required ferred undergoing experiential learning re- for students with the purpose of acquiring quired for the courses at ATI-Caraga’s additional knowledge, skills and experience School for Practical Agriculture (SPA). to reinforce the learning or theories taught within the classrooms. Thus, they were not Since 2009 until to date, 5 sets of in- only exposed to hands-on activities but terns or thirty-seven (37) students were ac- have also participated in the numerous in- commodated by the center. From December center trainings conducted under the differ- 2009 to March 2010, there were 4 Bachelor ent banner programs. Though no remunera- of Agricultural Technology (BAT) students tion is involved in the internship, the center from CSU, 5 BAT students in the following ensures that their learning farther out- year and during the 1st semester of 2012 weighs any monetary incentive (MBSalve). another 5 Bachelor of Agriculture (BSA) stu- dents completed their practicum. Last De- cember the 4th set of student-trainees com- Answers to AGRIQUIZ posed of six (6) 4th year BAT students start- 1.) b 6.)d ed their exposure to ATI’s SPA until March this year. Just recently, 13 students from 2.) c 7.) b ASSCAT taking up Bachelor of Science in 3.) c 8.) c Agribusiness Management and 4 BSA stu- 4.) d 9.) a dents from CSU completed their practicum 5.) d 10.) a on the 2nd week of June.

6. Post-harvest handling is important for maintaining and promoting the product’s ______.

a. texture and ripeness

1. Which of the following practices is most likely to re- b. freshness and aroma sult in soil erosion? c. quantity and added value a. crop rotation d. quality and market requirements b. hedgerow removal c. Terracing 7. A good example of an agricultural related business d. afforestation enterprise is a/an 2. It is the process of rendering a state of unconscious- a. abattoir ness to the animal: b. warehouse a. sticking c. bookshop b. bleeding d. Gymnasium c. stunning

d. staining 8. Which of the following is a disease of poultry? 3. A reaction that causes meat into turning brown in a. Mastitis color when heat is applied. b. Scouring a. chemical c. Coccidiosis b. physical d. Nutritional starvation c. maillard d biological 9. A castrated male swine or bull is called

4. Which of the following is a cultural method for the a. stag management of insect pests? b. capon a. trap crop establishment c. gelding b. synchronous planting d. wether c. water management 10. An organism living in or on another living organism, d. all of these obtaining from it part or all of its organic nutrients, re- 5. A compost is the product of the decomposition of sulting in death for the host or altered growth, develop- a. plant residue in layers ment and reproduction. b. plant and animal remains in heaps a. parasite c. organic matter with the help of chemicals b. predator d. animal and plant residues by microorganisms activity c. arthropod Sources: PSSC-Agriculture Q & A booklet d. scavenger See answers on page 13 Pinoy RKB Editorial Board Technical Advisers CARLOS C. SALCEDO ABDON R. MANTILLA MARY GRACE B. SALVE Senior Ag./FFARMS Coordinator TS-II/Rice Coordinator Editor-in-chief SAMUEL L. CALONZO MILAGROS C. CALUYA MARY GRACE B. SALVE TS-III/ Rice, OA and Ag.II/M&E Officer The word TIMGAS is a Cebuano term that FIL VICTOR A. BABANTO Livestock Focal Person implies something of superior quality.

Writers HERACLEO A. PALER TIMGAS is published twice a year by the FIL VICTOR A. BABANTO Ag.II/HVCDP Focal Person Agricultural Knowledge Management Section of ABDON R. MANTILLA Ag.II/ e-Extension and the Agricultural Training Institute Caraga Region, Los Angeles, Butuan City LYNDE T. CALIPES TGP Coordinator DR. MARIE JOCELYN C. NORMALIN D. GANSO SANTIAGO For comments and suggestions, Contributor RICARDO N. ABAO Ag.II/ RBO Focal Person Call (085) 815-75-28 Ag.II/Corn Focal Person Or email to [email protected] web: www.ati.da.gov.ph/caraga KIM T. CALIPES Lay-out Artist DR. NENITA D. SUMILE All rights reserved 2013 Over-all Adviser