30 agri workers in C. Visayas 

complete extension training

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA)--Thirty agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) technicians from Central Visayas completed a six-day training designed to improve how they plan, implement, and monitor extension activities for high value crops farmers.

The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Central Visayas conducted the training February 22–27, 2026, to strengthen the skills of frontline agricultural workers through its Basic Agricultural Extension Course (BAEC) for HVCDP coordinators.

The HVCDP plays a key role in increasing productivity, improving market competitiveness and raising farmers’ income.

By equipping HVCDP staff with stronger extension skills, ATI-7 helps ensure program interventions are more responsive, inclusive and results-oriented.

According to ATI-7, about 180 HVCDP technicians are actively implementing programs across Region 7’s municipalities. However, records show only 13 have completed the BAEC, meaning most have not received formal training in agricultural extension.

ATI-7 said that since HVCDP coordinators and technicians serve as the link between national policies and farmers in the field, strengthening their extension skills is essential. The training addresses that gap and ensures they are better prepared to support farmers.

Marilyn L. Gaterin, a fishery technician from Corella’s local government, said the training provided specific topics, real examples and answered her questions.

“It is a valuable training experience that gives us practical skills and knowledge in dealing with our future partners and stakeholders,” Gaterin said.

Learning the basics and beyond

The BAEC is one of ATI’s core training programs for extension workers, providing a strong foundation in agricultural extension principles and approaches.

Participants reflected on their strengths and areas for improvement, reviewed agricultural extension basics, studied different extension approaches and methods through case discussions, practiced communication skills during community activities and learned how to engage and facilitate communities using participatory approaches.

The sessions combined lectures, workshops and practical exercises, allowing participants to apply what they learned in realistic situations. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

The 30 frontline agricultural workers with ATI-7 personnel after undergoing training on Basic Agricultural Extension Course (BAEC) for High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Coordinators conducted on February 22–27, 2026, at ATI-Regional Training Center in Barangay Cabawan, Tagbilaran City. (photo courtesy of ATI-7)