ILOILO – To empower farmers and agri-entrepreneurs and boost sustainable agriculture, the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Western Visayas is set to develop more agri-tourism establishments and learning sites in the region.
The department, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) recently held a seminar on the establishment of agri-tourism and learning sites, introducing to farmers and entrepreneurs in the sector the factors “why there is a need to convert” their farms into agri-tourism and learning areas.
May Ann B. Grajo, officer-in-charge and AMAD chief, emphasized the crucial role of supporting agricultural education, pointing out the importance of learning sites throughout the community that will also empower farmers.
“Such endeavors not only enhance agricultural practices but also address increasing local community needs,” Grajo said.
During the event, Lyn G. Bantigue, Agriculturist II and Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) alternate focal person at the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in Western Visayas, provided steps and ways to convert the farm into an ATI Learning Site for Agriculture, including a detailed overview of the requirements and advantages of becoming an accredited learning site.
Adonis L. Antay, Instructor III of Leon Ganzon Polytechnic College, Balasan, Iloilo, also shared the process on how to establish a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Farm School by discussing the standards, accreditation process, and opportunities for individuals undergoing agri-based education and training.
The highlight of the activity was the success stories shared by the farmers who established LSAs and TESDA farm schools including the Young Farmers Challenge awardee, Princess Diane Calanza of Chandy’s Integrated Farm in Panitan, Capiz, and Manilyn Arceñas of Spoiledsaamo Integrated Farm in Cuartero, Capiz
Guest speakers also talked about a TESDA-accredited school that offers free training for children and helps women take advantage of opportunities in agriculture. They also encouraged other farmers to create LSAs.
Moreover, Kristoffer Leo M. Valete of the Department of Tourism (DOT) gave guidelines on how to start agri-tourism and presented the contents of the Farm Tourism Development Act and its application to the industry.
This move by the DA Region 6 supports the region’s continued efforts to further expand sustainable agriculture, capacity-building, and rural development through farm-based learning and agri-tourism./PN
