BICOL, February 6, 2024 – In preparation for the upcoming fiscal year (FY) 2024, regional and provincial implementers of the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Bicol underwent Training of Trainers (ToT) last December 19-20 at the DA Regional Field Office V (RFO V) in Camarines Sur.

The two-day training aims to supplement the knowledge of implementers on the modern techniques and technologies in Corn and Cassava, High Value Crops (HVC) and Livestock and Poultry Production as the selected commodities of the region for the second year of the Phase 2 implementation.

Among those who attended the training were regional and provincial implementers, who were also representatives from the Regional Program Management Support Office (RPMSO), and the Provincial Program Management Support Offices (PPMSO) of Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon.

Discussing plant spacing, planting depth, and the use of quality planting materials on modern cultivation techniques was DA RFO 5 Regional Report Officer Kim Jonah Antioquia, who served as the resource person for Corn Production. Soil preparation and fertilization and effective pest and disease management were also discussed.

For further understanding of poultry farming, Dr. Jomar Azada of the Livestock and Poultry Program discussed the fundamental principles and advanced techniques which includes theoretical and practical skills, addressing its current and potential challenges.

Meanwhile, Marilene Dimaculangan, Farm & Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) Program, and National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) Focal Person tackled sustainable practices, technological advancements, market-oriented strategies, and other practices that could be integrated into vegetable production. 

Present during the event were Luz R. Marcelino, RTD for Operations, Dr. Mary Grace DP. Rodriguez, FOD Chief, and the Regional Executive Director, Rodel P. Tornilla who addressed the entire SAAD Bicol team. 

“During the 6 years of SAAD implementation, we have received several awards. Pero tandaan natin na ang pinaka contentment, pinaka-real na balik sa satuya is not na kita na-recognize, an tunay na essence is that may mga natatabangan kita, may na improve kita na mga buhay. Yan ang pinakamagandang regalo sa satuyang pag-implement kan SAAD program,” said Dir. Tornilla. 

[During the six (6) years of SAAD implementation, we have received several awards. However, let’s always bear in mind that true contentment; the most genuine fulfillment, is not merely the recognition we receive—the real essence is that we were able to help and that we have improved the lives of others. That, indeed, is the most beautiful gift for us as SAAD implementers”.]

With an aim to disseminate knowledge and empower SAAD area coordinators who play a pivotal role in project implementation, the training sought to impart practical skills and effective strategies, ensuring that the program implementers are well-equipped for successful project execution within their respective areas of responsibility.

Following the successful conduct of the ToT, a meeting was held for comprehensive reports and project monitoring per commodities on programs on Livestock & Poultry, Rice, Corn & Cassava, and High Value Crops Production.

This collaborative discussion which enabled questions and concerns to be addressed, served as a platform to ensure a thorough understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead, focusing on achieving a successful outcome of the program in the region.###

Writer: Jovinel M. Gianan, DA-SAAD Bicol Information Officer
Source: Raynette B. De Jesus, DA-SAAD Bicol Information Officer
Photos: SAAD Bicol