Central Visayas - Extension works for agriculture extends to those people who have special needs. On 23 – 25 March 2021, twenty (20) people with disabilities (PWD) had undergone training on organic agriculture in the province of Siquijor.

The training would want to empower and strengthen the capacity of PWDs and teach them skills in various organic agriculture practices such as preparation of bio-organic inputs, natural farming system and vermicomposting. They were also taught how to apply appropriate production technology for specific farm activities and management.

A diversified integrated farming system was also introduced. Participants learned about organic-based livestock rearing for chicken and swine production, and also about organically grown vegetables, herbs and spices.

Generally, the training aimed to develop the attitude and spirit of differently-abled persons on self-help through livelihood activities through organic backyard farming. Agriculture is a special field of social activities that are directly involved in food and nutritional security. It also offers income generating opportunities, especially to PWD who have limited access to opportunities and other services.

The training was facilitated by Ma. Gracia Soliva-Pungay, Project Officer and assisted by Mary Daphny Tumala as training management team member. Elnard Ympal, farm owner of Elnard Integrated Farm was one of the resource persons, together with Aiza Ann Daligdig, Rio Duhaylungsod, and Evangeline Baroy of the Provincial Agriculture Office of Siquijor were the invited resource persons.

“I am very thankful to ATI and to the resource persons for this training. I am happy with all my learning about farming because we can feed ourselves at the same time we can also earn an income. This can really help people like us – people with disabilities,” said Teresito Ontoy – one of the training participants.