Thirty-six (36) implementers of the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) strengthened their capacity in agricultural extension work through a Facilitation Skills Training and Resource Person Development Course from January 20-24, 2025 in Aringay, La Union.
The five-day workshop aimed to equip the participants on advanced facilitation techniques, effective communication strategies, and dynamic presentation skills which are among the key competencies needed to better carry out their roles as extension workers. Also, the teambuilding activities foster a collaborative work environment and boost morale.
Mr. Ronan M. Soriano, DA-SAAD CAR Assistant Operations Officer, reminded all participants that government work is a shared responsibility. “By equipping ourselves with better skills and strengthening our teamwork, we create a more supportive and efficient workplace, enabling us to accomplish more for the people we serve,” said Soriano.
The training began with self-awareness and interpersonal development, led by Ms. Marjorie Casilla, Agriculturist II, of the Itogon Municipal Agriculture Office. Discussions covered Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Johari’s Window, and Multiple Intelligence, helping participants understand their strengths and areas for growth.
Gender and Development (GAD) was also highlighted by Dr. Aida Y. Pagtan, DA-SAAD CAR Social Preparation and Program Management (SPPM) Sub-unit Lead, who emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the training design and delivery.
Participants also explored the principles of agricultural extension work, adult learning methodologies, and adaptive leadership techniques. These sessions reinforced the necessity of tailoring training approaches to diverse learners and field conditions. Soriano, on the other hand, facilitated a session on powerful presentations, demonstrating how effective visuals and structured content can enhance training impact.
The participants created visual aids, both projected and non-projected, and applied their learning in mock training sessions during the hand-on workshops.. Their presentations were critiqued by Mr. Soriano, alongside Information Officers Arden S. Taltala and Irish Mikee W. Wigwigan, who provided valuable insights for improvement.
Top performers in the hands-on presentations received recognition, while all participants were issued with certificates of training. Awards were given in two categories: Projected Presentation and Non-Projected Presentation. Ranking first to fifth place for the projected category were Jonathan H. Gapad, Serapio T. Ulabu, Justin A. Gasmen, Marichu F. Besas, and Benny S. Mangili. Meanwhile, for the non-projected category, Eira A. Basingan, Mowanah Marie C. Jovellanos, Juan Ronie B. Bernal Jr., Marenil G. Matbagan, and Antonette T. Agaloos ranked first to fifth place, respectively.
The workshop concluded with the participant’s reflections, sharing their key takeaways and personal growth experiences.
“This was our first time conducting an activity outside our region, and for the first time, everyone was present. It was a great opportunity for us to build stronger relationships and learn from one another. Let us not forget to find joy in our work, as that is what empowers us to serve our farmers better,” said Eira A. Basingan, Community Development Officer II stationed in Mountain Province.###
