KIBUNGAN, Benguet – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture–Cordillera (DA-CAR), continues to strengthen agricultural capacity-building efforts through its Training of Trainers (TOT) program. On March 27, 2025, the first batch of trainees participated in a hands-on demonstration in Kibungan, Benguet, reinforcing their knowledge after two (2) days of intensive lectures.
The TOT program, designed to equip agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and agricultural technicians with advanced farming techniques, aims to ensure technology transfer to farmers in the Cordillera region. Hands-on training is particularly crucial in agriculture, as it allows trainers to apply scientific methods in real field conditions, improving their ability to guide farmers effectively. Through initiatives like this, agricultural trainers are better equipped to promote sustainable and innovative farming practices, ensuring that knowledge reaches the grassroots level where it can create the most impact.
During the field demonstration, trainees learned soil test analysis using the Soil Test Kit, enabling them to assess soil health and fertility. They also received training on green manuring and the application of biological control agents such as Trichoderma, Metarhizium, and Fusarium, which are essential for organic and sustainable farming.
“This activity is vital because it ensures that trainers gain practical experience, allowing them to transfer knowledge and technologies effectively,” said Dr. Leonora K. Verzola, Project Consultant.
Trainee Corazon I. Sanchez likened the three-day training to “a seed replanted in her heart,” one that she is eager to cultivate and share with others. She also highlighted how the activity fostered a strong bond between the implementers and trainees, strengthening collaboration for future agricultural development.
The event was made possible with the support of Mr. Jason T. Nabe, owner of Nabe Organic Farm, who hosted the on-site demonstration. Dr. Aki Kubota of JICA, also expressed gratitude to the participants for their active engagement throughout the training.
The program’s participants include AEWs from Benguet municipalities, farm owners of Learning Sites for Agriculture, representatives from the provincial government, Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal, and the Jollibee Foundation. The TOT program spans nine months and consists of three (3) training batches.
At the end of the program, participants will develop Action Plans, which will be funded by DA-CAR. Engr. Miriam B. Pastor, coordinator of the High Value Crops Development Program, emphasized that funding will be provided on the condition that trainees share the technologies they have learned with their colleagues and, most importantly, with farmers in their respective municipalities.
The resource persons for the training included Hailey G. Patnaan of DA-CAR, Rhonda Oloan and Maritess Alimurong from the Bureau of Plant Industry. Additionally, on the first day, Remy Lawingan of DA-CAR shared insights from her training in Japan on vegetable cultivation under facility cultivation. By Leny D. Mendoza
