07/05/2026
FARMERS FIELD SCHOOL – SESSION 1: LAUNCHING AND ORIENTATION HIGHLIGHTS 🌱👩🌾👨🌾
The 1st session of the Farmers Field School (FFS) on Vegetable Production for Youth Farmers officially commenced with a successful launching and orientation program, marking the beginning of a learning journey for the participants.
To build rapport among them, interactive GTKY activities were facilitated by Ate Agnes Autentico and Kuya Ruel Evardone, these enabled the participants to learn about one another and establish a positive and collaborative learning environment.
The program formally opened with preliminary activities, followed by the acknowledgment of guests and stakeholders delivered by the LYDO Staff, Ms. Princess Balonga.
Followed by messages delivered by distinguished guests and partners:
🌱 The welcome remarks from Municipal Agriculturist, Mr. Angelito Oroyan, emphasized the significance of agriculture and expresses his joy in seeing young individuals taking interest in agriculture. He shared how fulfilling the field has been as his chosen career path, and also encouraged the participants to be passionate and pursuing agriculture as a meaningful and rewarding endeavor.
🌱 The Local Youth Development Officer, Ms. Marianelli O. Buno, also shared her message of support by underscoring the vital role of youth involvement in agriculture. She encouraged the participants to stay committed, actively engage in the sessions, and persevere until the completion of the program.
🌱 An Inspiring Message from the Municipal Mayor, Hon. Janette A. Garcia, duly represented by Municipal Administrator Mr. Manuelito Carosus, also highlighted the importance of agriculture in the Municipality of Talibon and recognize the need for participation from the youth in strengthening and sustaining the agricultural sector.
🌱 Ms. Cecille Opada, a researcher of Department of Agriculture Region VII, then highlighted the importance of adapting to pressing global concerns through the strengthening agriculture, especially amid current challenges such as the oil crisis and climate change. She emphasized the need for innovation, sustainability, and resilience in modern farming practices.
To further deepen the participants’ understanding of FFS, Mr. Oroyan presented the rationale, goals, and overall program overview of the initiative. He emphasized the importance of empowering young farmers by encouraging them that agriculture is more than just farming. It is entrepreneurship, innovation, and a vital driver of economic growth and food security.
Overall, the morning was filled with enthusiasm, inspiration, and valuable insights that prepared the participants for the 16-sessions long program designed to equip them with practical knowledge and hands-on skills in sustainable vegetable production and modern agricultural practices.
The session concluded with an open forum where participants actively engaged in discussions regarding the official schedule, expectations, concerns, and suggestions for the upcoming sessions.
💚 Indeed, Session 1 set a strong and inspiring foundation for the Farmers Field School, bringing together youth, agricultural leaders, and stakeholders in a shared commitment to learning, growth, and agricultural development.