To further build the capacities of RCEF Training of Trainers (TOT) graduates, as facilitators of Farmers Field Schools (FFS), the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 1 (ATI-RTC 1) has conceptualized a Specialized Training Course on Pest and Nutrient Management, a refresher course that enhances the graduates’ knowledge and skills in these two (2) broadest and most crucial keycheck areas under the PalayCheck System.
The first batch of the specialized training was conducted on February 28 to March 4, 2022 in partnership with Rocapor’s Farm in Rosario, La Union – an accredited School for Practical Agriculture by ATI-RTC 1 and Farm School of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
A total of 27 RCEF TOT graduates had undergone the five-day training and learned proper identification of pests, and accurate diagnosis of diseases and nutrient deficiencies. From this, they learned how to come up with right control and management decisions, reduce their production costs and increase their yield. A combination of lecture-discussion, field exposures and sharing of experiences were the methods used for this training to ensure that its objective is attained.
Mr. Joey P. Caagusan, one of the participants fromAbundance Agri-Tourism Farmsaid that this training has enhanced his knowledge and skills on rice farming as farmer and made him more equipped and competent trainer and facilitator of Farmers Field School (FFS).
“In this special course, we were able to diagnose diseases caused by pests and nutrient deficiencies through the physical appearances of plants. Sa training din naito ay napadali ang pag-gather ng data satulong ng makabagong teknolohiya gaya ng LCC App, MOET App, RCM at iba pa.”,Mr. Caagusan said.
Action plans were one of the main outputs of the participants where their intentions of implementing the technologies and practices learned from the training are being cascaded to the farmers in their localities.
The next batch of the specialized training will be conducted in partnership with Philippine Rice Research Institute of Batac City and Muñoz.