TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite- Expanding its reach to boost Agri-Fishery (AF) information dissemination, the Agricultural Training Institute - CALABARZON launched two (2) Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) kiosks in two (2) Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSA) held last February 10, 2021.

During the activity, TGP Regional Coordinator, Dr. Rolando V. Maningas explained the requirements for establishing a FITS kiosk/corner in a locality. The FITS Kiosk serves as a “satellite” FITS Center to provide IEC materials and internet-based information resources to the farm’s clientele.

Owned by Ms. Suzette S. Sales, Sweet Nature Farms (SNF) located in Brgy. Macasipac, Sta. Maria, Laguna, was officially signed in as a FITS Kiosk. ATI CALABARZON Center Director, Ms. Marites Piamonte-Cosico led the ceremonial signing of the Letter of Agreement with the Provincial Government of Laguna through the Office of the Provincial Agriculture, represented by FITS Manager Engr. Jennifer T. Guadalupe and Laguna State Polytechnic University through its TGP Team Leader, Engr. Rommel Octavius R. Nuestro. Sta. Maria, Laguna Municipal Agriculturist, Mr. Carlo Sumaria also showed strong support and assistance from the local government unit to the farm's new endeavour.

SNF is the 6th FITS Kiosk established in the province of Laguna. Meanwhile, the first kiosk in the province of Rizal was established at EV Sanchez Farm, located at Brgy. Palaypalay, Jalajala Rizal.

Partner agencies from University of Rizal System represented by the Extension Director and TGP Team Leader Dr. Fe Esperanza T. Mateo and the “mother” FITS Center, MFI-Jalajala, Rizal led by the FITS Center Manager Rita Macabuhay also graced the ceremony at EV Sanchez Farm.

Five (5) private extension partners and another five (5) FITS Kiosks at DA RFO IV-A APCO offices will be launched in the first quarter of 2021. At present, a total of 17 FITS kiosks were established in the region.