LUCENA CITY, Quezon – In delivering excellent Agriculture and Fishery Extension (AFE) services, expanding partnerships with the pillars of extension: the National Government Agencies (NGAs) and Local Government Units (LGUs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and private sectors, is very crucial. Thus, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CaLaBaRZon is committed in providing quality extension services and intervention with the stakeholders. With this year's theme of Regional AFE Consultative Workshop, “Upholding Excellence through Expanded Partnerships and Convergence”, ATI CaLaBaRZon geared towards harmonization of plans and programs to uplift the Philippine agriculture and fisheries from a resource-based to technology-based industry. Some 180 guests and participants from different partner member agencies graced the 2018 Regional AFE Consultative Workshop of ATI CaLaBaRZon on February 8, 2018 in this city.

“Sa bawat training o anumang activities ng ATI IV-A, mahalaga po ang pillars of extension. Ngayong taon, times three ang activities na gagawin ngunit hindi kami nangangamba o natatakot sapagkat alam namin na kaisa, kasama namin kayo sa pgpapatupad ng mga activities. Kayong lahat handang lumipad. Sabay-sabay tayo at aabutin ang tagumpay ng sama-sama,” a notable welcome remark of Ms. Marites P. Cosico, Center Director of ATI CaLaBaRZon, during the opening ceremony. Sets of lined-up activities were discussed including the 2017 accomplishments as presented by Ms. Mariel Celeste C. Dayanghirang, Assistant Center Director of ATI CaLaBaRZon, while Ms. Sherylou C. Alfaro, Chief of Partnerships and Accreditation Section, explained the ATI Grant System and Call for Proposals. Based on the discussion of Ms. Alfaro, there are three grant classification: grants for Extension research, policy and innovation studies (for e-Extension and Knowledge Products and Services, Extension Research and Studies, and AFE Innovation); extension service grants (for the Production of Knowledge Products among Extension Service Providers or ESPs, Training and Training-related projects, and for Accredited ESPs); grant for the development of extension facilities (for establishment of Learning Site and School for Practical Agriculture). Then, it was immediately followed by an open forum to give way for queries and concerns raised by the attendees.

Alongside the 2018 Regional AFE Consultative Workshop, the book “Live to Tell: A Compilation of Success Stories in ATI RTC IV-A (Revised Edition),” was launched. Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, Chief of Information Services, provided a brief overview of the book. Afterwards, copies of Live to Tell were distributed per agency. The book launch was followed by the ESP Council recognition and awarding of newly accredited ESP were granted, whereas, Flor’s Garden in Antipolo City, Rizal adds to the newest list of Regional ESP of ATI CaLaBaRZon.

Moreover, training and extension trade fair and booth exhibit highlighted the peak of the program, a newer approach in presenting ATI CaLaBaRZon program activities, information and innovation. Each banner program focal person set-up a booth to showcase and demonstrate the latest activities, interventions and services. Booths were opened to discuss specific activities and special projects. Invited guests and participants were also welcomed to submit activity proposals for 2018.