ATI-Caraga Center Director Sammy Calonzo explained the projects within the office premises to Secretary Dar and his entourage composed of Asec. Noel Reyes and Special Adviser Dr. Santiago Obien.
LOS ANGELES, Butuan City – “This is what I wish that every ATI center should have - their own farm showcasing what they are teaching,” was the first comment of DA Secretary William Dar as he gazed around the demonstration farm of ATI-RTC 13 last October 23, 2020.
“I’ve been moving around the country inspecting ATI centers as well. And one thing I have really seen today is that it’s not just blackboard and chalk, but projects and demonstration (farm),” added the Secretary who encouraged ATI to “walk the talk” and further improve in showcasing agri technologies. “What you’re doing here will always be an example I will mention during my rounds in other regions in the country,” Secretary Dar remarked.
Aside from lauding ATI-Caraga, he also highlighted the importance of ATI in training farmers. “You are the lead in enhancing the capacity of farmers, in conveying new technologies and information, which they will use in their decision-making process”.
Furthermore, Dar also mentioned the accomplishment of the agriculture sector in recent months. He noted the 1.6% growth of the sector in the 2nd quarter and 16% growth in the volume of rice production in the 3rd quarter in spite the threats of Covid-19.
Among his entourage during his ATI visit were Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes, Special Adviser for National Rice Program Dr. Santiago Obien, and Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo.