SAN FABIAN, Pangasinan - The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center I (ATI_RTC I) formally launched the “Garden in the School Program” last July 4, 2018 at the De Venecia Sports Center, San Fabian, Pangasinan. The program paved a way to promote food security in schools and communities through self-help food production activities and instill values and appreciation of agriculture among learners.
Grade 5 pupils from five pilot schools were chosen to participate in this activity, led by ATI-RTC I, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of San Fabian, and the Department of Education and School for Practical Agriculture Cooperators, Mr. Alexander Disu and wife, Mrs. Noemi Disu. The participating schools include the San Fabian Integrated School, Angio Elementary School, Aramal Elementary School, Lipit-Tomeeng Elementary School, and East Central Elementary School.

San Fabian Municipal Executive Secretary Antonio Supremido, Jr. welcomed all the participants in behalf of San Fabian Municipal Mayor Constante Agbayani. Supremado apologized that Mayor Agbayani was not able to come for an equally important commitment. However, as the representative of Hon. Agbayani, he wanted to extend his gratitude to ATI for choosing the Municipality of San Fabian as the recipient of the project.

ATI-RTC I Center Director Rogelio Evangelista expressed his appreciation and gave inspiration to all the stakeholders. “Sa LGU ng San Fabian, maging sa ating mga guro na nandito ngayon, isang opportunity itong activity na ito lalo na sa ating mga mag-aaral upang buhayin muli ang 4-H Club ng San Fabian dahil alam naman nating hindi na active ang 4-H Club dito ngayon kaya sana ay mahikayat natin itong mga batang ito na buhaying muli ang 4-H Club ng San Fabian,” Evangelista said. He also added that with these activities and trainings, pupils will learn and understand not only the importance of agriculture but also its benefits to the youth today.