IBA, Zambales – “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Dr. Luz Taposok of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) cited this old Chinese proverb to emphasize the importance of leadership during the Provincial Training of Trainers (TOT) on Binhi ng Pagasa Program for Young Filipino Farmers held recently.

Dr. Taposok stated that the young agriculture leaders are called together to serve as prime movers of agricultural development and further educate young farmers in the rural areas to become productive and proficient citizens.

She explained that leadership entails responsibilities greater than oneself and it is not a role that people take just because someone told them to do so. Taking the leadership role, she said, meant having clear reasons behind the desire to lead and strong visions of accomplishments not only intended for the team but also for the individual members.

The OIC-Director said that the training would empower the young leaders to do more than what was expected of them as a leader and as a trainer. She as well tried to clear out the misconception that agriculture is a weak source of livelihood. She then recounted the days when she started to venture into farming and found success in the field.

Moreover, Zambales Governor Amor Deloso shared how he embarked on his journey as a governor and how he witnessed the agricultural development in the province of Zambales. He advised the participants to work on their attitudes and how they perceive situations. According to him, attitude is a significant element in life and it goes a long way in leadership.

The TOT on Binhi program aimed to empower young farmers and help them build confidence in serving as forefronts of sustainable development. Held last May 22 to 25, 2017, the activity was organized by ATI-Regional Training Center III.