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Veering away from the conventional practice has never been easy to organic farmers like Cynthia Tizon. For almost a decade now, Cynthia has been advocating organic farming, as she has always dreamed of a home surrounded by nature’s grandeur, like the scenery in her grandparents’ home where she spent her vacation during her childhood.

SOA highlights Organic Agriculture in Bataan | Page 03

ATI-CL bolsters youth engagement in farming | Page 04

CLAFEN spearheads establishment of 1BAFEN | Page 05

ATI-CL strengthens Filipino culture and tradition in 32nd Anniversary

Celebration | Page 06

ATI, PCC grant water buffaloes to selected Central Luzon

Learning Sites | Page 07

Japanese Host Farmers, JAEC visit YFFLTPJ Alumni in CL | Page 07

ATI-CL grants agri-starter kits to IPs in Angeles City | Page 10

ATI-CL stresses Extension Management to CL AEWs | Page 12

Editorial Consultants:Veronica Concepcion V. EsguerraMario A. Lapitan

Editor-in-Chief:Aeron P. Bermudez

Associate Editor:Eula Dee A. Lañada

Graphic Artist/Circulation:Kent Edward S. Ballesteros

Contributors to this Issue:Shanemie Carelle O. Daquio | Dianne M. Lapuz | Eula Dee A. Lañada | Aeron P. Bermudez | Kent Edward S. Ballesteros | Krizzell D. Galang | Mary Angelyn P. Bombon | Ian Japheht T. Caro | Marciano C. Santos | Maria Theresa S. Villanueva

Photo Credits:Project Implementers

ATI-CL, FITS Lupao partner in briefing farmers on RCM benefits | Page 12

PSAU recognizes ATI for its contribution to the university’s extension services | Page 11

Drip Irrigation System: A Climate-resilient Technology for Small-scale Farmers | Page 13

ATI-CL, Villar Sipag Foundation intensify campaign on the use of climate smart technologies through CSFBS | Page 13

Various agencies converge for CLAFEN-SICAP implementation | Page 14

4-H Club Regional Congress: Bringing Innovation and Development to Agriculture through 4-H | Page 15

Happy, Healthy-Organic Cynthia Tizon’s Story | Page 08-09

About BUSLO: Buslo symbolizes the preservation of bountiful harvest in Central Luzon being the rice granary and vegetable

basket of the Philippines. Like the humble vessel present in every Filipino, the publication aims to store and bring

relevant and timely news to every farmer, fisherfolk and extension workers in the region.

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T he Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) launched a School-on-

the-Air (SOA) on Organic Farming System dubbed as “OA ang Kita sa Organikong Pagsasaka!” in Bataan through the airing of its first episode on April 16, 2019.

The SOA aims to promote organic agriculture through proper dissemination of current technologies and effective practices using the radio as the medium of extension. Moreover, the program also aims to highlight the benefits and advantages of practicing organic agriculture.

Through listening to the radio program, the participants are expected to acquire knowledge and skills that they can use in starting and improving their practice on organic agriculture.

The three-month long program is heard during Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2pm in ‘Power Radio 104.5 FM’ until June 6, 2019. Around 500 farmers from different municipalities of Bataan is participating in the program.

In addition, each participant was awarded with a radio set to ensure the participation and high absorption of knowledge of the farmers.

Each episode has a corresponding topic to be discussed by a resource person.

Participants of SOA on Organic Agriculture in Bataan take their quiz as part of the requirements of the program

SOA highlights Organic Agriculture in Bataan

Among the resource persons invited are Ms. Luisa Rodis of OPA-Bataan, Ms Elsa Victoria, and Ms. Babelyn Lopez of ATI Central Luzon, Mr. Ronald Angat and Ms. Rose Joson of DA- RFO III, Mr. Geowell Gutierrez and Mr. Joey Alvior of OPA-Zambales, Mr. Armando Lagasca from Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Mr. Samson Gines and Juanito Castro from Gratia Plena Social Action Center, and Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, Center Director of ATI Central Luzon.

During the airing of the first episode, Dir. Esguerra said that, “70% ng ating populasyon ay umaasa sa kanilang ikabubuhay sa agrikultura. Ang sektor ng agrikultura ay nananatiling napakahalagang sektor

ng pamahalaan. Kung nakakaranas man tayo ng mga hamon, huwag po tayong mawalan ng pagasa dahil ang pamahalaan, kasama ang ATI, ay nag-iisip ng mga paraan kung paano matutulungan ang ating mga magsasaka.”

The participants took their first short exam right after the airing of first five episodes. They are set to take two more exams until the end of the program.

The program was made possible through the help of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Bataan, the Offices of the Municipal Agriculturist of Bataan, and Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office III. KDGalang

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ATI-CL bolsters youth engagement in farming

The Agricultural Training Institute in Central Luzon (ATI-CL) bolstered youth

engagement in farming through the conduct of trainings on Mushroom Processing, Packaging and Marketing, and Leadership and Organization Management in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on February 18-19 and 19-20, 2019, respectively.

With the help of the experts from Central Luzon State University (CLSU), 20 4-Hers from Rizal, Nueva Ecija gained knowledge and experience on basic processing, packaging and marketing of mushroom.

ATI-CL Center Director, Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, said, “Layunin ng 4-H Club ay para matulungan ang mga kabataan na ihanda ang kanilang mga sarili in terms of kakayahan, kasanayan sa kanilang papel o role na ginagampanan sa pagpapaunlad ng ating bansa. Naniwala kami na bawat isa, matanda man o bata, may kontribusyon para mapaunlad ang ating pamayanan.”

“Inihahanda namin kayo upang magkaroon ng self-confidence, matutong makisalamuha sa iba’t ibang tao, sa bata, may position o wala, at pagdating ng panahong kayo na ang leader ay kayang-kaya niyong humarap kahit kanino,” she added.

Ensuring the food safety of the products, Ms. Jessica

Rustia, Professor, discussed the importance of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). She further talked about the cost of starting a business. Moreover, Ms. Geraline Gantioque, Extension Coordinator/Instructor, discussed the different types of food packaging. Mushroom processing, on the other hand, involved a demonstration on how to prepare mushroom chicharon and pickled mushroom out of fresh oyster mushrooms.

Meanwhile, Ms. Babelyn Lopez, ATI-RTC III GAD Focal Person, served as the expert in imposing to the 4-Hers the importance of learning basic leadership principles, values and ethical boundaries and how they will respond under pressure when challenged. The discussion involved an active participation that strengthen and broaden

their understanding regarding the topics.

Participants expressed their appreciation in the activity. Ms. Gem Everly Mendoza, 23, said, “Maganda ang layunin ng training, lalo na sa ikalalago ng mga miyembro ng club. Bagong kaalaman sa business ang aming papasukin at sisimulan. Nahubog ang aming kakayahang mamuno at maging responsible.”

“Magiging isang hamon ito sa amin dahil nagsisimula pa lamang kami. But we are blessed dahil kami ang nakaranas ng ganitong training. Malaking tulong ito para sa amin,” she quipped.

These trainings were held at ATI-CL Satellite Center, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija in coordination with the local government unit (LGU) of Rizal, Nueva Ecija. MAPBombon

Portal 4-H Club in Rizal, Nueva Ecija ventures on mushroom production which they learned from the training

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CLAFEN spearheads establishment of 1BAFEN

As the lead agency of the Central Luzon Agriculture and Fishery Extension

Network (CLAFEN), the Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) held a consultative meeting for the establishment of One Bataan Agriculture & Fishery Extension Network or 1BAFEN on March 14, 2019 in Crown Royal Hotel, Balanga City, Bataan.

ATI-CL presented the importance of the network as a mechanism to harmonize the delivery of the AF extension activities. Mr. Gaudencio Ferrer of the Office of the Governor was supportive and expressed that the network will enhance the public-private partnership, which will benefit the farmers and fishers.

ATI-CL Center Director, Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, quipped “establishing the network is meant to address the needs of the community in the rural

areas to improve the quality of life, improve their productivity and income, and develop self-resilient communities who are independent, and can make decisions based on information and knowledge.”

“We have to start somewhere because a lot of communities are waiting for us, to the see the greater impact or results, hindi makikita kung magkanya-kanya, so we have to work together,” she added.

The agreements of the meeting were: (a) The Office of the Governor through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist becomes the 1BAFEN Chairman with ATI-CL as the Vice Chairman; (b) After the 2019 elections, letters will be sent to the municipal mayors for their commitment in organizing the 1BAFEN; (c) Submission of the training needs assessment (TNA) and agency profile forms will be

on April 12, 2019 through email; and (d) Signing of the resolution was postponed after the May 2019 elections.

Representatives from the Office of Provincial Agriculture of Bataan, Provincial Department of Agrarian Reform (PDAR), National Commission of Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism (DOT), Provincial Cooperative and Economic Development Office (PCEDO), Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), ATI Learning Sites for Agriculture, Provincial Veterinary Office (PVET), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Bataan also attended the said event. MCSantos

Different government agencies in Bataan converge for the establishment of 1BAFEN

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ATI-CL strengthens Filipino culture and tradition in 32nd Anniversary Celebration

The Agricultural Training Institute in Central Luzon (ATI-CL) strengthened Filipino culture

and tradition through “Laro ng Lahi” and “Galing ng Lahi” during the two-day celebration for its 32nd anniversary on January 29-30, 2019 in its regional training center in Dinalupihan, Bataan.

In line with the theme “GALAK NA KASABAY: Magandang Buhay Kasama ang ATI,” one of the highlights of the event is the “Laro ng Lahi,” which featured favorite local games such as patintero, touching ball, tumbang preso, charades, Jack ‘en Poy, pabitin, basagang palayok, and shoot the ball. Another is the “Galing ng Lahi,” comprised of the spoken poetry and poster making contest. All ATI staff and guests participated in the activities.

“Our clients and staff will join together to enjoy and bring back favorite childhood memories through the traditional Filipino games, which strengthens Filipino culture and tradition,” expressed Center Director, Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra.

The first day of the event kicked off with a motorcade around the community followed by the ecumenical service. During the opening program, Assistant Center Director, Mr. Mario A. Lapitan, acknowledged the guests, as well as the ATI staff. Then, Center Director, Ms. Veronica Concepcion Esguerra, delivered the welcome remarks.

The Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) of Bataan, Ms. Marilou Ramos, congratulated ATI for reaching 32 years in delivering extension services in the region. The

Municipal Agriculturist of Dinalupihan, Bataan, Mr. Fidel Felipe, also delivered an inspirational message citing ATI as its active partner in the field of extension, especially in Dinalupihan. Meanwhile, the Director of Bataan Peninsula State University-Dinalupihan Campus, Director Billy A. Alipio, also commended ATI for giving opportunities to the youth to be exposed in agriculture, and encouraging them to become farmers.

Hon. Gaudencio Ferrer, board member of the Bataan, also graced the event. He said that Bataan has the lowest poverty incidence in Central Luzon at 2.02%, and is aiming to lower it down further. With this, ATI is needed in the province to capacitate the farmers in the latest technologies to lift them up from poverty.

Following the series of inspiration message was the recognition of loyalty awardees. Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, Mr. Mario A. Lapitan, Mr. Darwin C. Berces, and Mr. Marbert Morales were recognized for their

years of service to ATI. In addition, oath taking of newly appointed section chiefs took place. The new section chief for the Information Services Section is Information Officer III, Mr. Aeron P. Bermudez. Likewise, Mr. Jayvee Bryan Carillo took oath as Senior Agriculturist at the same time section chief for the Partnership and Accreditation Services.

In the afternoon, a technology forum commenced. Engr. Merlinda Teraldico of PhilMech discussed post-harvest technologies for rice. Meanwhile, Ms. Reinalyn Gulen of ATI gave a lecture on Rice Technology Updates. Moreover, Ms. Lily D. Dela Cruz of ATI tackled Climate Smart Agriculture. Rice farmers from the community participated in the forum.

Following the technology forum was the “Catch Me If You Can Sabi ng Chick-Boy” activity, which involved catching native pigs. A Zumba Marathon dubbed as “Sayaw, Galaw, Hataw” sealed the first day.

ATI-CL Staff play ‘pabitin’ as part of the 32nd Anniversary Celebration of ATI

continued on page 11...

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ATI, PCC grant water buffaloes to selected Central Luzon Learning Sites

The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with the

Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), granted water buffaloes to two (2) Learning Sites in Central Luzon on April 10, 2019 in Pampanga and Tarlac.

St. Isidore “The FARMer” Learning Center in Sta. Ana, Pampanga, with Mr. Romeo M. Cordova as its cooperator, was one of the recipients of the said water buffaloes. The farm received three (3) heads of water buffaloes, and are said to be ready for milking.

The other learning site granted with five (5) water buffaloes is Ragsak Family Farm located in Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac with Dr. Ronaldo A. Sumaoang as its owner. When asked what was his reaction when he learned that his farm was one of the recipients of the water buffaloes, he quipped, “I am very elated and excited for this new venture.” He said that he is ready

to strategize and make an income out of the water buffaloes through producing and processing milk.

Dr. Daniel L. Aquino, Center Director of PCC, said that PCC partnered with ATI to model the carabao-based enterprise development, wherein the water buffaloes are not considered as pets but sources of income in the form of producing milk and later on processing it. In addition, he expressed that ATI’s role is to capacitate the learning sites, which will create a ripple effect,

capacitating all the farmers in the community.

According to ATI-CL Center Director, Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, this partnership is a great opportunity to capacitate the learning sites as well as improve their income.

The Central Luzon learning sites were the second batch to be granted with water buffaloes with PCC. The first batch was awarded in Davao region. EDLañada

Thirteen (13) Japanese host farmers of the Young Filipino Farm Leaders Training

Program in Japan (YFFLTPJ) visited three of the program’s alumni in Central Luzon on January 22-23, 2019.

The group, headed by Mr. Toshihiro Shimizu, Director for Operations of the Japan Agricultural Exchange Council (JAEC), evaluated and monitored their trainees after getting back from the program.

“Thank you for the warm welcome here in the Philippines. We are happy to see our trainees doing well after their stay in Japan,” expressed Shimizu during the courtesy call at the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center III (ATI-RTC III) in Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Mr. Alexander Paulo (Batch 2011) from San Antonio, Zambales; Ronald Echon (Batch 2014) from Candelaria, Zambales; and Ernesto Perlas, Jr. (Batch 2014) from Palayan City,

Nueva Ecija showcased their farm’s progress.

“We are happy to see you and this is the time that we could say thank you to all the things that you have done to all our young Filipino farmers, who stayed for 11 months in Japan,” said Mr. Mario A. Lapitan, Assistant Center Director of ATI-RTC III.

“I hope that you are also happy to see some of the young farmers who

Japanese Host Farmers, JAEC visit YFFLTPJ Alumni in CL

continued on page 10...

Dr. Daniel L. Aquino of PCC (Left), Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra of ATI (Middle), and Mr. Romeo Cordova (Right) sign MOA for the partnership in implementing the program

FEATURE

Veering away from the conventional practice has never been easy to organic farmers like Cynthia Tizon. For almost a decade now,

Cynthia has been advocating organic farming, as she has always dreamed of a home surrounded by nature’s grandeur, like the scenery in her grandparents’ home where she spent her vacation during her childhood. Hence, when God blessed her to retire at the age of 54, she built a home in a 7,500-sqm farm in San Roque, Magalang, Pampanga devoting 1,200 sqm of which for crop production.

Working for 25 years as a medical representative, she had become accustomed to seeing long queues of patients in hospitals. She was sad at the thought that most of their resources were being spent on medicines and other hospitalization expenses.

These disheartening scenes pushed her to consider consuming less of what she refers to as “poisonous” substances. Even her skin and hair-care treatments are now “poison-free”. Likewise, she has also lessened the use of seasonings and preservatives in her dishes. Her practices are heavily anchored on the teachings of Hippocrates: “make your food your medicine and your medicine your food”.

THE CALLING

Prior to organic agriculture, Cynthia has long been attending training programs on preparing

concoction fertilizers. She was invited to participate in an organic agriculture training by the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center III (ATI-RTC III).

She did not respond outright. Instead, she asked God for a sign if He, indeed, wants her to pursue a path in organic agriculture.

“God answered me through a Bible verse: …that God will provide seeds to the soul…so He blessed me so I can be a blessing to others (2 Corinthians 9:10-11)”. From then on, she rarely misses invitations to attend organic agriculture training programs.

FROM FARM TO KITCHEN

In November 2009, she bought 20 chickens and 4 pigs; planted medicinal and culinary herbs as well as salad vegetables such as lettuce, arugula, cherry, wild tomatoes, Japanese cucumber and kale; and pinakbet vegetables to serve as initial inputs for her Charisma Nature Farm.

Sadly, there were only a few takers of her pinakbet vegetables. Hence, she concentrated on salad vegetables like lettuce and arugula. As we write, Cynthia supplies vegetables to nine restaurants in the cities of San Fernando and Angeles in Pampanga.

IT’S MORE FUN IN THE FARM

Cynthia advocates educational farm visits among elementary school children to help promote agriculture to them.

She adds that most children nowadays also do not eat nor know about vegetables. Through farm visits, she and her team expose children to natural food production—from transplanting seedlings, fishing, feeding organic pigs and chickens, to getting a feel of the friendly worms in Cynthia’s vermiculture.

In line with her mission to model, share, and train using organic agricultural farming system, she has also opened the farm to adults. This is a way of convincing them to go into FAITH (Food Always in the Home) gardening.

She narrates that food scarcity is not a distant possibility given the ever increasing population. Whenever this thought dawns on her, she tells herself what her mentor taught her: “If you are a food consumer, you should also be a producer”. “There is joy in picking vegetables and fresh fruits from your own backyard,” says Cynthia. Consistent

with her healthy living advocacy, she uses only natural fertilizers for her crops.

CYNTHIA’S FARMACY

Cynthia sure knows the importance of value-adding. She has already developed many products out of her organic materials.

For instance, in consultation with her friends, she was able to develop an ointment to treat itchiness caused by pimples.

Her main materials were Acapulco and Makabuhay, with beast wax and lauric acid as binders. With sodium bicarbonate, baking powder, and lauric acid as main ingredients, Cynthia has developed her own version of a deodorant.

She has vinegar, too, made from all natural ingredients such as fermented tomato, squash, and pineapple. Additionally, she also makes salad dressing as partner of her vegetablesalad.

As she is obsessed with organic products, the fertilizers used in their production all came from her farm. They have liquid fertilizers such as fermented fruit juice as taste enhancer and plant juice as growth hormones. They also have solid fertilizers from farm wastes such as weeds, leaves, and animal manure. For pest management, they use organic and wood vinegar.

HER ONE TRUE LOVE

ATI RTC III has recognized Cynthia’s relentless efforts to advocate organic agriculture. In 2011, ATI RTC III certified Charisma Nature Farm as a learning site, allowing Cynthia to widen her audience on organic agriculture. In addition, her farm also received an accreditation from ATI RTC III as a School for Practical Agriculture.

Cynthia shares that she had conducted training programs for senior citizens about nutritious food intake, which may help control their blood pressure and cholesterol level, and vitamin intake from no-cook food in the past. She also hosts a program on PEP TV 3 called Going Green to widen the clout of her advocacy. The weekly program is being replayed daily.

Cynthia, together with other organic agriculture advocates, looks at life beyond this generation. Nature, according to her, is not just God’s gift to humankind, but also a treasure that every human being must value so the next generation will have something to enjoy and nurture.

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NEWS | 10

are now successful doing some of the things that they have learned from you. And I hope that you will continuously support the YFFLTPJ program,” he added.

YFFLTPJ is an 11-month program that encourages young Filipino farmers to go to Japan, learn different agricultural practices and technologies from their host farmers, and apply it in their respective farms upon completing the course. SCODaquio

The Agricultural Training Institute in Central Luzon (ATI-CL) granted agri-starter kits to twenty

(20) Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and farmer-beneficiaries of the program dubbed as “Responsableng Katutubo at Kabataan Tungo sa Maunlad na Pamayanan (RKKTMP)” during the turnover ceremony held on February 6, 2019 at Sitio Target, Brgy. Sapang Bato, Angeles City.

The starter kit is composed of hand tools, assorted vegetable seeds, organic fertilizer, molasses, drum containers, and goat.

“Una sa lahat po ay maraming salamat sa Panginoon dahil sinagot na ang matagal na po naming pinagdarasal na sana mapansin ang lugar namin at mabigyan ng mga ayuda. Pangalawa, salamat sa ATI dahil kayo po ang ginamit ng Panginoon sa aming mga panalangin. Hindi niyo po kami pinabayaan at sana po ay tuloy-tuloy pa din po ang inyong supporta sa aming mga katutubo. Pangatlo po, makakaasa po kayo na pagyayamanin po namin itong mga pinamigay niyo sa amin at magbubunga po ang lahat ng

pa training na ibinigay niyo po sa amin,” expressed Ptr. Narcito C. David, President of Sitio Target Farmers Association.

This is part of the after-training support program to the IPs to help them apply the knowledge and skills learned during the training on: (1) Organizational Strengthening; (2) Organic Vegetable Production; and (3) Goat Production held on September 4-6, 2018.

“Gaya ng binhing pinamigay namin, ito ay nagsisimbolo ng aming serbisyo sa inyo. Ang binhing nagbibigay ng buhay at pag-asa. Malaki ang aming paniniwala na lahat ng inyong natutunan sa mga pagsasanay noong nakaraang taon ay inyong palalaguin. Kami po sa ATI ay pilit na ipinapaabot ang aming serbisyo sa inyo upang lahat po tayo ay aasenso,” said Center Director of ATI-CL, Ms. Veronica Concepcion Esguerra.

RKKTMP aimed to raise the level of awareness and consciousness of the 4-H club members to the tradition

ATI-CL grants agri-starter kits to IPs in Angeles City

and culture of IP community for a better involvement and services to the community.

The program was divided into three (3) phases and was launched on August 15-17, 2018. The first phase focused on training the 10 selected 4-H Club members on Cultural Sensitivity, Participatory Rural Appraisal and Leadership Skills.

Meanwhile, the second phase, which was held on August 22-24, 2018, is the immersion part of the program. The selected 4-H club members lived and mingled with the 20 beneficiaries and conducted a survey and focus group discussion (FGD) to identify their training needs in the community.

The program was made possible in collaboration with the City Agriculture Office of Angeles headed by Mr. Ericson Dagdag, City Agriculturist, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) in Camiling, Tarlac and Ms. Cynthia A. Tizon, owner of Charisma Nature Farm in Magalang, Pampanga. SCODaquio

IPs receive starter kits composed of farm inputs as part of training support

Japanese Host... from page 7

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PSAU recognizes ATI for its contribution to the university’s extension services

The Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) recognized Agricultural Training Institute

(ATI) for its contribution in providing excellent extension services to the community on January 28, 2019 during the PSAU’s 4th Anniversary Celebration.

PSAU granted two (2) plaques of recognition, for ATI-Central Office (ATI-CO) and ATI-Central Luzon (ATI-CO), represented by ATI-CL Center Director, Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra, and Assistant Center Director, Mr. Mario A. Lapitan, respectively, during the said event.

“The PSAU family cannot give the verbatim details of your contribution but we perfectly know that your contribution is way beyond your call of duty because you believed in us and continue to do so,” quipped PSAU President, Dr. Honorio Soriano, to ATI.

PSAU has been an active partner of ATI in providing extension services to farmers in Pampanga. Both agencies are currently partners in implementing the 3-year convergence

project, which was launched last year, dubbed as “PAGKAING SAPAT PARA SA LAHAT”: Modernizing, Upscaling and Establishment of Science and Technology Based Integrated Farm for Farmers of PSAU’s Adopt Barangay Extension Modality.

Moreover, PSAU, in partnership with ATI-CL, conducted three (3) trainings in 2018: (1) Character Organization (CORE) for Farmers: Leadership Training on Integrated Human and Organization Development for

Community Leaders; (2) Training on Native Chicken Production and Goat Production; and (3) Training on Values Formation, Organizational Management, Swine Production, Value Adding, and Marketing for Ingenious Farmers of Inararo, Porac, Pampanga.

Different national government agencies (NGAs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and private sectors also attended the said event.KEBallesteros

Ms. Veronica Concepcion V. Esguerra of ATI (Left), Mr. Mario A. Lapitan of ATI (Middle), and Commisioner Ronald L. Adamat, Ph.D. of CHED (Right) receive palques of recognition from PSAU

ATI-CL strengthens Filipino culture...from page 6

The second day started with a “Laro ng Lahi” featuring favorite local games. All ATI staff and guests were placed into four competing teams. A poster making contest using different commodity seeds transpired in the afternoon. Simultaneous to the poster making was the tree planting activity done in the center’s premises.

Meanwhile, part of the “Galing ng Lahi” was the spoken poetry, which was held in the evening. The participants uttered words of passion

in line with the event’s theme for the first round, and free piece for the second round.

For the spoken poetry, Ms. Micha Ella Macaspac got the first place, flanked by Mr. Richard Paulo, and Mr. Ian Japheht Caro, who got 2nd and 3rd

place, respectively.

The celebration was capped off with a search for Mr. and Ms. ATI. The participants showcased their creative attires made of recycled materials in

the production number. A question and answer portion followed. In the end, Mr. Marciano Santos and Ms. Veronica Concepcion Esguerra bagged the title.

Instead of holding it in its Central Office, the ATI conducted its celebration in its respective regional centers this year. This gave the opportunity for all the staff to participate in the event, and allowed them to unwind from work-related activities. EDLañada

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ATI-CL stresses Extension Management to CL AEWs

The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) stressed the importance

of extension management to 30 agricultural extension workers (AEWs) across the region through a training on April 24-26, 2019 in ATI-RTC III, San Ramon, Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Agricultural technologists from selected provinces in Central Luzon participated in the said activity. The provinces and specific municipalities were are follows: Bataan (5) - [Bagac, Dinalupihan (2), Hermosa, Morong]; Bulacan (9) - [Baliwag (2), Bocaue, Calumpit, Marilao, Meycauayan City, San Ildefonso, San Jose Del Monte, Santa Maria]; Pampanga (1) – [Mabalacat City]; Tarlac (9) - [Anao, Concepcion, Mayantoc, Moncada, Pura, Santa

The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership

with Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center of Lupao, Nueva Ecija, conducted a briefing on the benefits of the Rice Crop Manager (RCM) to 50 selected farmers in the said municipality on May 17, 2019.

Ms. Johanna S. Mariano, municipal agriculturist of Lupao, challenged the farmers to continue to innovate their farming system through RCM. “Ako po mismo ay nakita ang efficiency ng RCM dahil nang sinunod ko ng wasto ang recommendation na ibinigay ng

ATI-CL, FITS Lupao partner in briefing farmers on RCM benefitsapplication, mas na-minimize ang gastos dahil sa nabawasan ang gastos ko sa pataba,” she quipped.

The said activity aimed to capacitate the farmers with sufficient information on the benefits of the technology though proper information dissemination activities like briefings.

The continuous advocacy campaign and exposure of farmers to the RCM technology is necessary for them to appreciate and eventually adapt the recommendations given.RCM is a tool developed by the

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in partnership with various agencies. It contains a set of science-based principles and formula for calculating field-specific nutrient and crop management.

Also, RCM uses the power of a computer and internet and/or mobile phones to calculate each field- and farmer-specific management recommendation and deploy each recommendation to farmers. The tool is now on its extensive dissemination to farmers.

Anyone who wants to avail the services of RCM, they can visit the nearest FITS center or municipal agriculture office. APBermudez

Ignacia, Tarlac City (2), Victoria]; and Zambales (6) - [Iba (3), Palauig, San Antonio, Sta. Cruz].

The training aimed to enable the participants implement good agricultural extension management in their respective local government units (LGUs) after the training.

Dr. Evelyn Aro-Esquejo, President of Action for Excellence and Development Philippines, Inc. (AEDP), served as the resource person for the said training. She covered the following modules: (1) An Introduction to Agricultural Extension Management; (2) The Art of Extension and Science of Agriculture; (3) The Extension Worker as a Professional; (4) The Extension Worker as a Manager and/or Leader, and (5) Enhancing

Leadership Skills in Extension.

“Attending this training made me love my job even more. It helped a lot to change my perceptions and ideas about being an agricultural extension worker. We are not just an average AEW, we are the front-liners of the Department of Agriculture that bring change to the community we serve. We guide and lead our clients to their road to success,” said Ms. Mearlliza Fe B. Gana, agricultural technologist of the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist in Victoria, Tarlac.

She added, “This training also made me learn and realize the mistakes we make as an AEW and with this training, we commit ourselves to be the best extension worker we could be.” IJCaro

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January - June 2019

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Drip Irrigation System: A Climate-resilient Technology for Small-scale Farmers

Wala kaming pagkakakitaan tuwing tagtuyot. Merong tubig, pero hindi sapat para sa aming

mga pananim,” said Carmelita Racuya of Doña Josefa, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija. She stressed that it is a good thing that they were introduced to the drip irrigation system, which is a big help for them, especially the small-scale farmers. With this, hopefully they will have a source of water especially during dry seasons.

The said technology was introduced during the Training on Irrigation Techniques for Small-Scale Farmers (Climate Change Resiliency), which was held on April 24-26, 2019 in Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center III, Satellite Center in Brgy. Singalat, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

The drip irrigation system is a viable option to address not only climate change, but also food sufficiency and livelihood especially for the small-scale farmers. Low-cost materials that are locally available in the farm and in the market would help farmers increase productivity during dry seasons.

Gerald Manzano, local farmer technician of Umiray, Dingalan, Aurora, quipped

that farming is made easier today, as well as the application of fertilizer, because it is incorporated with the drip irrigation. “Malaki ang gastos ko sa labor sa pagdidilig at pagpapataba. Kapag drip ang gamit, hindi mo na problema ngayon ang mga iyon,” he added.

Another participant, Mr. Jose Lulu of Santolan, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, acknowledged the advantage of drip irrigation system. With this, he quipped that his income will increase in the next year. He said, “Pwede ko nang itaon ang pamumulaklak ng

kalamansi ko sa kamahalan ng presyo. Sa susunod na taon, mas malaki ang kikitain ko.”

Scarcity of water, laborious watering and fertilizer application, expensive surface irrigation are among the factors that limit farmers’ productivity and income, and these are among the problems that the drip irrigation system addresses.

With its easy and simple installation, the participants of the training were convinced of adopting the technology. MTSVillanueva

Participants during the Training on Irrigation Techniques for Small-scale farmers in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija as part of their hands-on activity

The Agricultural Training Institute in Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with the Villar Sipag

Foundation, intensified the campaign on the use of climate smart technologies through the conduct of Climate Smart Farm Business School (CSFBS) on February 11-22, 2019 in Otel Pampanga, City of San Fernando, Pampanga with 31 farm owners from regions 1, 2, 3, and CAR as participants.

“Ang CSFBS ang isa sa mga very relevant at timely courses sa agriculture sa

ngayon dahil alam niyo naman na talagang nararamdaman na natin ang epekto ng climate change at ang agriculture sector ang isa sa pinaka-apektado nito talaga,” said Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, Sen. Cynthia Villar.

Through several lectures and workshops, the participants developed their own business plan and learned how to make money in agriculture.

Ms. Elizabeth Galaraga, a participant of the said activity, acknowledged ATI-CL

for giving them the opportunity to join the training. “This training inspired us to really love agriculture and make some actions towards climate change. May the knowledge and skills that we gained here will not just inspire us but will also give us the courage to share them to our respective communities,” she quipped.

FBS was developed to create new ways of upgrading farmers’ awareness and understanding the impact of climate change and learned how to adapt and reduce vulnerability. DMLapuz

ATI-CL, Villar Sipag Foundation intensify campaign on the use of climate smart technologies through CSFBS

January - June 2019

NEWS | 14

Various agencies converge for CLAFEN-SICAP implementation

Various government agencies in Central Luzon converged in the implementation of two (2) Central

Luzon Agriculture and Fishery Extension Network (CLAFEN) – Stakeholders Intervention towards Community Action Projects (SICAP) in the region.

One project, dubbed as Kalanguya Indigenous Peoples’ Sustainable Agro-Forestry Through Family Empowerment (KIP-SAFE), aims to capacitate the Kalanguya IP families within the ancestral domain (AD) barangays of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija in undertaking sustainable agro-forestry and related activities to improve their living condition and contribute to watershed and environmental protection.

The beneficiaries of the project are 40 families and other stakeholders in four (4) Kalanguya Ancestral Domain (KAD) barangays in Carranglan, namely: Capintalan, Minuli, Putlan, and Salazar.This 3-year project was launched on October 9, 2018 and has four (4) project components: Sustainable Agro-forestry Production (SAP1) and Sustainable Animal Production (SAP2) Trainings; Project Assistance Right after Training (PART); Family-to-Family (F2F) Sharing of Blessing; and Watershed, Environment and Climate Change Awareness Raising and Engagement (WE CARE).

SAP1 was conducted on October 23-24, 2018 in PhilMech, Central Luzon State University (CLSU) Compound, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. On the top of the livelihood training, 128 grafted mango seedlings were distributed.

Meanwhile, SAP 2 training was conducted on February 26-28, 2019 in CLSU Alumni Hostel, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. Post-training support such as native chickens and native pigs as well as seedlings and garden tools will be given to the beneficiaries.

As a convergence project of CLAFEN, it is being implemented by ATI-Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with Central Luzon State University-Extension Office, National Commission on Indigenous People-Nueva Ecija Provincial Office (NCIP-NEPO), Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO III), Department of Environment and Natural Resources III (DENR III), Provincial Government of Nueva Ecija, and Municipal Local Government Unit of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija.

The second project, entitled Goat Raisers Rise: Enhanced Goat Technology Promotion and Utilization among Small-Hold Raisers, seeks to improve productivity and profitability of small-hold goat raisers thereby contributing to their food security, health and nutrition, and general well-being in Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija. Launched in 2017, the project site is located in Bambanaba and Paitan Norte in Cuyapo.

This year, 80 heads of native hen and 20 heads of rooster will be provided. In addition, a monthly meeting of the beneficiaries will be conducted to

assess the status of the project. Also, Information Education Communication (IEC) materials on proven technologies on livestock and crops will be provided to them. Moreover, capability building activities such as Refresher Course for Herd Health Management Training and Tilapia Tinapa Making are scheduled for them in 2019.

The said project is being implemented by ATI-CL, in collaboration with CLSU, Provincial Veterinary of Nueva Ecija, Municipal Local Government (MLGU) of Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, and DA-RFO III.

A consultation meeting for the 2 projects, which was attended by the different concerned agencies, was held on January 25, 2019 in CLSU, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.

The CLAFEN-SICAP is comprised of three-year projects, which follow the farm family approach that aims to uplift the lives of household beneficiaries and their families through the provision of necessary capability building activities and post-training support by collaborating agencies. EDLañada & MAPBombon

Beneficiaries of the KIP-SAFE receive mango seedlings as part of the project

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January - June 2019

15

4-H Club Regional Congress: Bringing Innovation and Development to Agriculture through 4-H

One of the activities of the 4-H Club Program is the 4-H Congress and Organizational

Strengthening formerly known as Regional Summer Youth Camp. This is an annual activity conducted in recognition to the active participation and involvement of the youth towards nation building.

The activity is not just an avenue for learning but also for earning. The youth are challenged to learn and earn more to be at par with Asian neighbors who are blazing the trail of productivity. They will also be exposed to activities that call for responsibility and stewardship, teamwork, credibility, and integrity, which are vital for true development to happen.

This year’s theme, “Bringing Innovation and Development to Agriculture through 4-H” highlighted innovations on agricultural and agripreneural practices of 4-Hers. These were showcased through various contests such as Cacao-based Processing and Packaging Technology, Terrarium (Glass Gardening), Promotional Video Making, Spoken Poetry, and Song Writing and Singing Competition.

The following are the proclaimed winners during the said event:

SPOKEN POETRYPAMPANGA – JED YUTUC

VIDEO MAKING CONTESTAURORA – LOUIE JOY U. REYES

ON-THE-SPOT CANVASS PAINTING ZAMBALES – THEA JANE TUAZON

4-H QUIZ BEEZAMBALES – MAUREEN MAE ESCOBAR

TERRARIUM (GLASS GARDENING)TARLAC – MARK CHRISTIAN A. RAFAEL

CACAO-BASED FOOD PROCESSING & PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY CONTEST (PASALUBONG PACKAGE)AURORA- JAYSON RAMOS

HIMIG HANDOG SONG WRITING COMPETITIONAURORA – LIA BRINEY MOSTOLLES

MOST LIKED AND MOST NUMBER OF VIEWS ON FACEBOOKZAMBALESLIKES- 591 | SHARES 318 | VIEWS: 4.4K

The discussion on “Empowering Youth for Poverty Alleviation” and sharing of experiences also highlighted the three-day camp. In his talk, Mr. Emmanuel Bundoc, manager and owner of Felicidro Farm in Pulilan, Bulacan, encouraged the youth to invest and take part in agriculture and agri-industry.

In addition, Mr. Ronald F. Echon, 4-H regional president, discussed the 4-H roles in the organization

and community. International travel reports were also shared by the Young Filipino Farmer Leaders Training Program in Japan (YFFLTPJ), namely: (1) John Andrew Nero from San Marcelino, Zambales; and (2) Kier Patrick Manalo from Bagac, Bataan.

Moreover, Mr. June Dela Cruz from Cabiao, Nueva Ecija and Mr. Irvin Joseph Reyes from Angeles City, Pampanga shared their experiences during their one-month training in Japan.

A total of 141 4-Hers, provincial and municipal coordinators, and VLAP (Volunteer Leaders Association of the Philippines) from seven provinces in the region gathered for the congress to build camaraderie and increase youth involvement in agriculture.

The 4-H regional congress was held on April 23-25, 2019 at La Vista Inland Resort, Balanga City, Bataan. The proclaimed winners competed in the national level, held in Vigan, Ilocos Sur on May 27-31, 2019. SCODaquio

Participants from across the region convene during the 4-H Congress and Organizational Strengthening in Bataan

January - June 2019

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