In commemorating its 33rd Founding Anniversary as the training and extension arm of the Department of Agriculture, the ATI MiMaRoPa celebrated the anniversary on January 27-29, 2020 along with other 15 ATI networks and Central Office.
With its theme ‘Vibrant Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Services Towards Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita’, the event started with a motorcade along the major streets of Naujan-Calapan-Victoria. The said motorcade was participated by ATI staff and other stakeholders. Afterwards, to steer up the students on their career path, a career guidance was spearheaded by the Career Development Management Section among the immersing students and On-the-Job Trainees of Apitong National High School and Mindoro State College of Agriculture and Technology, respectively. In addition, Mr. Erlan D. Pasana, Information Officer II briefed the students on e-Extension Program of ATI, particularly the e-Learning to encourage more youth to engage in agriculture.
Moreover, an exhibition game between ATI staff and other DA agencies was held to foster camaraderie and strong linkage among and between DA-attached agencies.
On its second day, ATI staff were thrilled as they competed for the “Palaro ng Lahi” such as Kadang-Kadang, Tamaang Bata, Luksong Tinik, Chinese Garter, Dragon Race, Ipit Buko, Rag Race and Pasa Mo, Harina Ko”.
“It’s a very good strategy to energize each and everyone of us before we engage and “battle” for the coming activities. For sure, we are all refreshed by these activities,” Jayson Erondo, one of the employees said.
Meanwhile, on January 29, 2020, foundation day of ATI, tree planting activities was conducted with a total of 50 mulberries and dragon fruit planted around the vicinity of ATI MiMaRoPa. It was followed by a holy mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Willie Abas motivating the staff to be the driving force of good news as they carry out their mandates towards excellent extension services beyond boundaries.
Afterwards, Pat Andrew B. Barrientos led the awarding of Certified Learning Sites under Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program to Lasquety Farm and Equias Integrated Eco-Farm. ATI MiMaRoPa also recognized the employees, both Job Orders and Regular Employees who have rendered exemplary services for five (5) years, namely, Christian Albert B. Sarabia, Mairiz B. Bacay, Monchito L. Jalac, Diana Rose M. Peñafiel, Allan S. Peradilla and Ulysses Godfrey F. Faller; 15 years (Norberto C. Maur, Senior Agriculturist); and 40 years (Flora D. Ilao, Agriculturist II). ATI MiMaRoPa also presented the newly hired permanent employees, namely, Engr. Cheri Dawn F. Fradejas, Media Specialist II; Edna M. Mojica, Administrative Officer II; and Richard R. Templo, Administrative Aide VI.
Highlight of the celebration was the book cover reveal of ATI MiMaRoPa’s first book publication entitled “Suloy: Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Book of Inspiration and Innovation”, a collection of MS success stories in the region.
With this celebration, Barrientos reiterated to all ATI MiMaRoPa employees that as they are performing the ATI’s mandates beyond boundaries, it is expected of them to work towards the DA’s goal “Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita”.
“Let’s continue giving our best and support our department’s goal towards “Masaganang Ani Mataas na Kita. In this year ATI’s 33rd Founding Anniversary, we may have different ways on commemorating this milestone or event but just the same, let us enjoy this celebration as we enjoined the spirit of teamwork,” Barrientos further said.