TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite- Over the years, the Agricultural Training Institute oversees the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) in the provincial and municipal or city level. With an aim to reach more farmers and other clienteles and promote technology-based information in agriculture and fisheries and DA programs and services, the Center partners with National Government Agency (NGA) and private farm for the establishment of Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) Kiosk in the region.
In 2020 Memorandum no. M20-01-31 of ATI, an accredited ATI Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) and Extension Service Provider (ESP) may add the service of FITS kiosk in their facility by submitting a letter of intent and undergoing field and desk evaluation likewise for the NGAs and SUCs.
As of first quarter of 2021, the Center has established seven FITS Kiosk in private partner farms, namely: Crooc Agri-Tourism (Bounty Harvest), Indang, Cavite ; Terra Verde Ecofarm Inc., Maragondon, Cavite; Sweet Nature Farm in Mabitac, Laguna; Milea Bee Farm, San Jose, Batangas; EV Sanchez Farm, Jalajala, Rizal; Cortijo de Palsabangon OPC, Pagbilao, Quezon ; and Beegood Agriventures, Tiaong, Quezon.
Moreover, through the joint effort of the Department of Agriculture Region IV-A and ATI IV-A, five FITS Kiosks were established in the offices of the Agricultural Program Coordinating Officers (APCO).
Offices from the Provincial Agriculturists and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) were tapped as partner institution during the evaluation process and launching of the FITS kiosks. Local government units FITS Centers were also tapped to function as “parent” of the kiosk, as part of a formal agreement.
At present, a total of 17 FITS kiosks are strategically located in Calabarzon.