A total of 22 focals from 14 planters’ associations (PAs) and mill district development councils (MDDCs) underwent the 2-day Training of Trainers at SIFI Training Center, Talisay City.
The Training of Trainers equipped 22 focal persons from different PAs and MDDCs in handling future community and industry-wide regenerative agriculture seminars. The workshop was led by Mr. Romel Cortones, SIFI-RSS Agriculturist, and Mr. Rhoderick Samonte, Director for Internationalization and External Relations of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University.
The focal persons from the PAs and MDDCs set clear plans and target number of farmers as showcase models in the training. They were introduced to the key principles on non-formal learning and skills as a trainer, including the preparations and management procedures on the conduct of a training. The discussions included topics on regenerative agriculture principles, soil fertility improvement, farm planning, and budget planning.
Modules were also assigned to the participants for return demonstration as speakers or facilitators. The focals shared that the understanding of the assigned topic builds confidence during the presentation, as well as the delivery. They also stated that prior to their return demonstration, some of them never experienced public speaking. An opportunity for feedbacking was given to the group, which prompted them to identify their strengths and areas for improvement as future trainers.
Following the Training of Trainers, the focals led and facilitated the actual training of PA farmers, who were set to start with the green manure demo farms this year. The first few rollout topics were focused on Regenerative Agriculture; Soil Fertility Improvement; Farm Planning; Integrated Pest, Nutrient, Weed Management; Cane Harvesting; and Ratoon Management.
