In a significant move towards fostering sustainable agricultural development, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Bicol once again demonstrated its commitment to the Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System (PAFES) by providing a substantial ₱700,000.00 financial support, alongside cutting-edge ICT equipment for 2024. This generous contribution marks a critical milestone in the second year of PAFES’ implementation in Camarines Norte, reinforcing the province’s efforts towards modernizing agriculture and enhancing the livelihoods of its farmers.
The official turnover of this support took place on August 29, 2024, at the Governor’s Office, Provincial Capitol Building in Daet, with Hon. Governor Ricarte R. Padilla and ATI Bicol Center Director Elsa Ani Parot at the helm of the ceremony. The event was graced by prominent stakeholders, including ATI RTC 5 Center Director Elsa A. Parot, DA APCO Ailyn G. Rafer, PPDO EnP. Teodoro Licarte, and other key provincial leaders, further solidifying the province’s collaborative approach to advancing agricultural progress.
Under the leadership of Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Almirante Abad, PAFEC Camarines Norte continues to roll out training and extension programs focused on rice-based systems, capacity-building, and agri-entrepreneurship. Among the notable activities for 2024 are:
- Rice-Based Integrated Farming System through Palayaman
- Farmer Field School (FFS) Cum Palay Check
- Meat Processing Seminar Using Chicken and Duck Meat (ProVet)
- Training on Balut and Salted Egg Making (ProVet)
- Training on Poultry Production (ProVet)
- Training on Digital Agriculture (2 Batches)
- Training on Utilization of Rice-Based Products and Value-Adding (2 Batches)
- Training on Crop Health Management on Rice (2 Batches)
- Training on Rice Production and Postharvest Technology
- Training on Operation and Maintenance of Rice Machineries and Equipment
These interventions aim to equip farmers with modern technologies and sustainable practices to boost productivity, enhance income generation, and build resilience against external shocks. Moreover, the programs foster peer learning and community-building among local farmers—paving the way for a more self-reliant and future-ready agricultural sector in Camarines Norte.