LAS NIEVES, Agusan del Norte – The two batches of specialized training on corn husk processing and utilization was conducted on August 21-23 and 28-30 2019, respectively. This was participated by 58 individuals composed of farmers, agricultural extension workers (AEWs), rural improvement club (RIC) members and teachers.

The training aimed at enhancing the participants’ knowledge and skills on corn by-products utilization while continuously creating a good market for their products to increase income.

Moreover, it aims to help the community in maximizing the utilization of their products into a profitable business as one source of livelihood opportunities; a way of augmenting the income of farm families. This undertaking would significantly help in managing waste and mitigate the causes of global warming.

During the training, participants were taught how to make handicrafts from corn husks like Baby’s breath, two different corner piece décor, Gumamela, Calla Lilly, Rosette, Wild Sun flower, Bromeliad and Garland. They were guided by Ms. Lucela Esdrilon, the President of Caraga’s Rural Improvement Club. Their outputs or finished products were displayed right after the closing program.

Participants extended their heartfelt thanks to the agencies involved. They were amazed at their outputs although they admitted that they need more practice to have a good quality product. According to them, the training is very useful especially in the rural areas since most of them lack knowledge on the value of corn husk.

The ATI-Caraga continues to empower the rural corn farmers especially the women’s organizations in the region through enterprise and agri-business activities (with report from NV Madarimot).