With the objective of enhancing the knowledge and skills of farmers on up-to-date technologies and farming techniques on hybrid rice production, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 7 conducted two (2) batches Training of Trainers in the region last May 21-25 and May 28-June 1, 2018 respectively.

A total of 55 completers composed of farmers, agricultural extension workers, women and youth appreciated the training. They expressed their unfamiliarity of the new machineries used in the farming operation, like combine harvester and rice transplanter. According to them, these machines are very useful in the production of hybrid rice to minimize labor force but the problem is its high price.

Though the training provided information on loan program that will enable them to facilitate their needs, yet, the participants set aside their interest of acquiring the machineries, instead, they stated in their plans to first re-echo their knowledge gained to their respective organization through the Bayanihan system.

The topics discussed during the five-day training include the basic principles of Hybrid Rice in the Philippines; PalayCheck system for Hybrid Rice commercial production (F1 Cultivation); familiarization of the mechanized Hybrid Rice cultivation; and new/updated Hybrid Rice technologies.

The pool of trainers were as follows: Angelito A. Oroyan; Narciso A. Baslan, Jr.; Alexander S. Manla; Angeles C. Opila; Rose Antoniette P. Talagsa; Efren P. Cañones; Alquin C. Boncales; Joemelyn Allinic-Sumagang; Lilibeth P. Caroro; Celso T. Jumawan; Novelyn B. Omandam; Emigdio P. Coritico; Nida D. Abada; Azineth S. Tancogo and Engr. Jonathan O. Sumagang, who is also ATI-7’ Rice Focal Person and Project Officer.