LOS BAÑOS, Laguna- The Agricultural Training Institute Region IV-A formed 29 new driven and diverse FFS facilitators in the CaLaBaRZon region. The group was a mixture of Livestock Extension Workers (LEWs) and a farm owner.

The second training of facilitators on Farmers’ Field School on Sustainable Pig Farming is a result of the continuous effort and commitment of ATI Region IV-A and the Provincial Veterinary Offices of CaLaBaRZon to provide alternative, sustainable and cost-efficient swine raising technology to backyard swine farmers by utilizing the FFS-SPF technology.

During the 10 days, the participants were engaged in participatory lecture discussions and workshops wherein they were taught on how to make their natural feed mix, Fermented Concoctions and other skills needed to conduct FFS SPF in their respective areas. Additional skills on presentation and facilitation were also discussed. On the last day of training, the participants underwent microteaching to gauge their capability to deliver an assigned topic to an audience.

The closing program was graced by Dr. Mary Grace M. Bustamante, Provincial Veterinarian of Laguna to which she shared their experiences in conducting FFS SPF and willingly gave tips based on their experience.

A notable impression was given by Ms. Erma Javier, "Dahil po mga AEW na po ang mga kasapi dito marami na kayong experience pero nung una medyo nahihirapan po ako pero nilakasan ko na lang po ang loob ko dahil andiyan naman po ang ATI na kahit marami na kayong alam at experience. Kung kaya niyo po kaya ko rin po, tapos masaya po ako na uuwi po ako na may maibabahagi po ako sa aming lugar. Sa amin po talaga sa Calauan [ay] wala pong LI [Livestock Inspector] kaya laking pasasalamat ko po. Kaya po kung kaya ko, sigurado po akong kaya natin."

The 10-day training was held last June 18 – 27, 2018 at Arisabel Clubhouse Resort, Los Baños, Laguna.

Content: Marian Lovella A. Parot