OPPORTUNITIES. The world continues to offer glittering prizes to those with stout (courageous and determined) hearts and sharp swords. It only comes once. And the moment it comes, you have to grab it – for it may never come back. The Department of Agriculture thru the Agricultural Training Institute RTC IV-B (MIMAROPA) provides opportunities to everyone, especially to the younger generation, to pursue their dreams by studying agriculture-related courses. Thus, they not only help themselves, they also become a channel of blessings to countless farmers in our nation and beyond, by the information and innovative farming technology they now have in hands upon finishing their course.

Every day, I see parents and students, from different municipalities of Oriental Mindoro flock the Office, just to submit their pertinent documents to apply for scholarship grants being offered, while some from the provinces of Marinduque, Palawan, Romblon and Occidental Mindoro, submit their applications through courier services and the internet. I also saw their phones kept on ringing and most of the callers make inquires of the scholarship. To most of them, this offer is their only last resort in pursuing their dreams. This is their only hope. If the application is granted, the student must demonstrate hard work and determination to complete his race. “Opportunities are usually disguised as hard work, so most people don't recognize them”. Ann Landers, U.S. journalist (1918 – 2002).

This opportunity maybe small to some, but small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises. Grab this chance and you won't be sorry for a might have been. “Never look at the doors closing behind you or you'll miss the ones opening ahead”. Cyril Magnin (1899 - 1988) U.S. businessperson. Fortunately, the personnel of ATI MIMAROPA were one of the friendliest agencies I’ve ever seen. You can feel how warm they are by their greetings and smiles. Even “Benten” (The cute pet of Center Director Pat Andrew B. Barrientos) looks cute and cuddly to visitors. Their hard work and commitment proves them worthy of this commendation.

I once had an opportunity to interview a scholarship grant applicant. Here are his comments:

"With regards to the personnel, “they were warm and approachable”. With regards to the facilities, “it was nice and clean, well-groomed and sanitized”.

With regards to their actions and service, “they were quick and responsive”.

To rest of the staff and employees of ATI MIMAROPA, keep up the good work! Pastor Marlon M. Robles United Church of Christ in the Philippines Evangelista, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro