Samuel L. Calonzo, Center Director of ATI-Caraga, explains to representatives from Local Government Units, National Government Agencies, State Universities and Colleges, and farmers about the Mandanas Ruling during the Provincial Consultation-Workshop on the Development of the National Extension Agenda and Programs (NEAP) for FY 2022-2028.
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Representatives from the Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and other stakeholders attended the Provincial Consultation-Workshop on the Development of the National Extension Agenda and Programs (NEAP) for the Fiscal Year 2022-2028. The two-day activity took place from July 8 to 9, 2021 at JB Nature Farm in Brgy. Sukailang this city.
After a brief opening program, the Day 1 activity proceeded with the scheduled topics and workshop. Nena L. Lomuntad, Planning Officer II and Project Officer, gave an overview of the activities. Furthermore, Engr. Matt Andrew Baquiano, Agriculturist II and OIC Chief of the Partnerships and Accreditation Services Section (PASS) shared his overview of NEAP.
Center Director Samuel L. Calonzo was also present to deliver his topic on the Mandanas Ruling while Assistant Center Director Heracleo A. Paler explained about the Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System (PAFES). Once the Mandanas ruling will be implemented in 2022, the NEAP will act as a roadmap and will become the basis in planning, implementing, and monitoring programs, projects, and activities in the agriculture and fisheries extension.
The Day 1 participants were tasked to fill out workshop forms particularly on the gaps and possible interventions they felt needed urgent attention. From their outputs, these will be presented to the actors of the value chain on the second day for their comments and suggestions.
Several points were raised among the Day 1 participants. Ruby Ann Lagahit, Provincial Agriculturist of Surigao del Norte, suggested that there should be a third meeting for stakeholders and value chain key players to harmonize issues.
However, it was explained that due to health protocols that restrict ATI to converge participants in large gatherings, the institute can only furnish copy the stakeholders the comments and suggestions that may be raised on Day 2. After which, ATI-RTC 13 is expected to forward all documents, proceedings, and consultation outputs for consolidation at the Central Office. The crafting of the 2022-2028 NEAP follows a timetable where it is expected to be completed and approved as an Administrative Order of the Department of Agriculture not later than next year.