TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite – The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON’s UrbanATInTo bagged the 1st place during the Best Center-Based Urban Agriculture Garden spearheaded by ATI Central Office. Sixteen (16) Regional Training Centers (RTC) of ATI across the country participated in the activity.

In support to the "Ahon Lahat, Pagkain Sapat Kontra sa COVID-19 or ALPAS COVID-19" or the "Plant, Plant Plant Program" of the Department of Agriculture, ATI CALABARZON intensifies the promotion of urban agriculture through the technology demonstration site dubbed as “UrbanATInTo.”

Situated in the highly urbanized city of Trece Martires, UrbanATInTo techno demo site was established in 2015 formerly known as “Paligsakahan.” Coined from the words “paligsahan” and “sakahan,” it was then a friendly contest among the Center’s employees. In 2019, the techno demo site was renamed to “Dalubsakahan” which became as an AgriDoc project of ATI CALABARZON staff.

Now, the 700-square meter area inside the compound of the RTC cater all stakeholders from agri-enthusiast to seasoned farmers. UrbanATInTo showcases urban agriculture technologies such as container garden, aquaponics, hydroponics, vertical gardening, square foot garden, raised bed garden including the drip irrigation technology, tower garden, and hanging garden. It also has greenhouse and nursery, poultry area, and a mini rice terraces.

Moreover, in support to the celebration of Farmer and Fisher Folks Month, the Center broadcasted the harvest festival of ATI CALABARZON live at the official Facebook page and AgriStudio Youtube channel on May 26, 2021.

In her closing message, ATI CALABARZON Center Director Marites Piamonte-Cosico extends her gratitude to all the partners of the Center from different attached agencies of the Department of Agriculture, State Universities and Colleges, Non-Governmental Organizations, Local Government Units and private sectors. “Malawak man o maliit man, saan ka man siyudad o kabukiran. Huwag po tayong magsasawang magtanim, magtanim, at magtanim! Hangad po namin ang mataas ng kita ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino!” Director Cosico added.

Edited by: JBalmeo