Maramag, Bukidnon---Realizing the importance of imparting knowledge and skills to the grass roots level through extension services, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) recently partnered with LGU-Maramag and various government agencies in the region in the building and establishment of a new training hall for Learning Site (LS) in Barangay Bagong Silang in Maramag, Bukidnon.

Humanitarian and environmentalist Gina Lopez of the famous ABS-CBN Lopezes attended the Groundbreaking Ceremony through her I Love Foundation. OIC-Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez and Kape Maramag RIC President Imelda Mendoza were among the prime movers and key players of the said event along with other government agencies and entities.

As project partner, Ms. Lopez stressed the importance of having passion, the heart, and integrity to serve. “Having served the government for 10 months, you know what makes the difference and matters most? It is definitely not the money but the heart (to serve). If people have the love and compassion for each other, that is the secret to success, not money. That is the manifestation and expression of love---If we help each other and serve with integrity and care for each other.” Ms. Lopez said as she hopes for a progressive Bukidnon with the farmers attaining economic and financial security.

Aside from the building of the training hall for Learning Site (LS), other activities include fellowship meeting with the stakeholders, planting of coffee trees around the vicinity of the training facility and visiting of the coffee plantation and production areas.

Other government agencies who served as partners in the building and establishment of the training hall on Tuesday October 30, 2018 include DTI, TESDA, DA, DOST, DPWH, PNP and DND.