ATI-Central Visayas

Happy World Chocolate Day, everyone! 🤎🍫

This World Chocolate Day, we celebrate the dedication, hard work, and passion of the cacao farmers in our community who make every chocolate story possible.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our project partners for their unwavering support and commitment to empowering our cacao farmers in Central Visayas.

We wish everyone around the world a joyful and chocolate-filled Happy World Chocolate Day!🤎🍫

Growing Communicators, Cultivating Impact: ATI-Central Visayas Welcomes VSU DevCom Interns

TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL – The Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center VII (ATI-Central Visayas) welcomed student interns from the Department of Development Communication of Visayas State University (VSU) as part of its continuing commitment to developing future communication professionals and strengthening agricultural extension through experiential learning.

The internship is implemented under the Student Internship Program of the Philippines (SIPP) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between ATI-Central Visayas and VSU, which provides students with meaningful workplace exposure while complementing their academic training. The partnership aligns with the guidelines set forth under Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order No. 104, series of 2017.

The partnership reflects ATI-Central Visayas' continuing efforts to bridge academic learning with industry practice by nurturing the next generation of agricultural communicators.

As part of their 200-hour experiential learning, the VSU Development Communication interns will work alongside ATI-Central Visayas personnel, enhancing their competencies in strategic communication, knowledge management, digital media production, and agricultural extension while contributing to the agency's communication initiatives.

ATI-Central Visayas Highlights Weekly Values Formation Series with "Conviction Over Conformity"

TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL – The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Visayas (ATI-Central Visayas) officially kicked off its weekly values formation initiative with the theme "Conviction Over Conformity," encouraging employees to uphold integrity and remain steadfast in their principles despite external pressures. Spearheaded by the Administrative and Finance Unit (AFU), the activity serves as the first installment of the Center's weekly values reflections aimed at fostering ethical leadership, accountability, and a values-driven workplace culture.

Anchored on the inspiring words of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., "I would rather be a man of conviction than a man of conformity," the week's reflection challenged employees to examine situations where they may have compromised their values and identify concrete steps toward personal and professional growth. Participants were encouraged to journal one area where their conviction had wavered and commit to one actionable step to strengthen it throughout the week. The initiative also highlighted the importance of inspiring integrity among colleagues, emphasizing that "a good name is worth more than silver or gold."

The weekly values formation program reflects ATI-Central Visayas' commitment to cultivating not only competent public servants but also individuals guided by integrity, excellence, and ethical decision-making. Through a series of daily reflections, practical tips, and interactive challenges, the Center aims to strengthen its organizational culture by empowering employees to live out the agency's core values in the workplace and in service to the agriculture and fisheries sector.

Greenthumbpreneurs Young Farmers Club Bags Gawad Saka Regional Award

The Greenthumbpreneurs Young Farmers 4-H Club of Nahawan National High School in Clarin, Bohol, was recognized as the Outstanding Young Farmers' Organization during the 2026 Gawad Saka Awards, one of the highlights of the 128th Department of Agriculture Anniversary and Partners Pasasalamat held on July 2–3, 2026, at the Golden Prince Hotel and Suites in Cebu City.

The prestigious recognition honors exemplary youth organizations that have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing Philippine agriculture through sustainable farming initiatives. The awarding ceremony formed part of the Department of Agriculture's anniversary celebration with the theme, "Kawani ng Ahensya, Kaagapay ng Magsasaka't Mangingisda Tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas."

The organization received a ₱500,000 cash incentive, recognizing its exemplary efforts in promoting agricultural entrepreneurship among the youth and inspiring fellow students to pursue farming as a viable and rewarding endeavor.

The achievement also highlights the dedication of Sir Jay Marc Tirol Sotto, the club's assisting technician, whose technical guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support played a significant role in developing the organization into a regionally recognized youth agricultural group.

Through his leadership, the Greenthumbpreneurs Young Farmers Club has successfully implemented school- and community-based agricultural initiatives that encourage innovation, sustainability, and active youth participation in agriculture.

READ MORE HERE: https://ati2.da.gov.ph/ati-7/content/article/shanemie-carelle-d-pradera/greenthumbpreneurs-young-farmers-club-bags-gawad-saka-national

ATI-Central Visayas Champions Sustainable Farming at Multi-Sector Forum in Cebu

CEBU – Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, the Agricultural Training Institute-Central Visayas (ATI-Central Visayas) took an active role in the University of Cebu's Multi-Stakeholder Consultation and Collaboration Forum held on July 4, 2026, at the University of Cebu–Mambaling Campus.

Representing the agency, Senior Agriculturist Merigine C. Otara who served as a resource speaker on Sustainable Farming Systems, sharing ATI's initiatives that promote climate-resilient, productive, and environmentally sound agricultural practices. The forum was organized in support of the "One Community, One Environment, One Future" initiative and the revival of the University's STREEewardship Program, which seeks to strengthen environmental conservation through collaborative action.

During her presentation, Otara emphasized that sustainable farming extends beyond increasing agricultural productivity, highlighting its role in conserving natural resources, improving soil health, strengthening climate resilience, and creating sustainable livelihoods for farming communities. She underscored ATI-Central Visayas' continuing efforts to equip farmers, agricultural extension workers, and rural stakeholders with science-based technologies and sustainable farming practices through capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and extension services.

These initiatives include trainings on sustainable land resource management, integrated farming systems, organic agriculture, climate-smart agriculture, and value-adding enterprises that enable farmers to adapt to changing environmental conditions while enhancing farm productivity. Along with Ms. Otara is Ms. Maryjane Flor S. Patulilic, Media Production Specialist II of ATI-RTC VII.

READ MORE HERE: https://ati2.da.gov.ph/ati-7/content/

Bohol Makes History with First Vegetable Seed Production Level III Graduates in the Philippines

BOHOL – Twenty-five coconut farmers successfully completed the 232-hour (32-day) Vegetable Seed Production Level III training under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Scholarship Program on July 2, 2026.

The competency-based training was conducted by the Green Garden of Hope in Balilihan, Bohol, one of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in Central Visayas' Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA), equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to produce quality vegetable seeds as an additional livelihood and enterprise opportunity.

The training aimed to strengthen the technical capabilities of coconut farmers by diversifying their income sources through vegetable seed production. By completing the program, the graduates are now better equipped to apply quality production practices, enhance farm productivity, and contribute to the availability of high-quality planting materials in their respective communities.

The ATI-Central Visayas played a significant role in the initiative as one of the technical experts involved in developing the Competency Standards for Vegetable Seed Production Level III.

ATI collaborated with other members of the Bohol Agriculture and Fishery Industry Board, organized by TESDA, to ensure that the training curriculum aligns with industry needs and supports the continued professionalization and competitiveness of the agriculture sector.

Two ATI-Central Visayas LSA Cooperators Earn Top Honors in DA Regional Awards

CEBU CITY – The Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office VII (DA-Central Visayas) celebrated its 128th Department of Agriculture Anniversary and Partners Pasasalamat on July 3, 2026, at the Golden Prince Hotel and Suites, Cebu City. Anchored on the theme, "Kawani ng Ahensya, Kaagapay ng Magsasaka't Mangingisda Tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas," the celebration recognized the invaluable contributions of government employees, local government units, partner agencies, farmers' organizations, and other stakeholders in advancing the region's agriculture and fisheries sector.

The event featured a keynote address by DA-Central Visayas Regional Executive Director (RED) Angel C. Enriquez, CESO III, who emphasized the vital role of government workers and development partners in strengthening Philippine agriculture. A highlight of the celebration was the Partners Pasasalamat and Gawad Saka Awards, which honored outstanding farmers, agricultural extension workers, farmer organizations, local government units, schools, and institutional partners for their exemplary contributions to agricultural development in Central Visayas. The awards also showcased innovative initiatives and best practices that continue to enhance agricultural productivity, food security, and rural development across the region.

Adding to the celebration, two Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) Cooperators of ATI-Central Visayas received regional recognition for their exceptional contributions to the agriculture sector. Mr. Rhodman Joseph Ubas was named Outstanding Young Farmer, while the Aguipo Coconut Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative earned the Outstanding Coconut Farmers Association award. Their achievements underscore the impact of ATI-Central Visayas' Learning Site for Agriculture program in nurturing exemplary farmers and organizations that champion agricultural innovation and community development.

The anniversary celebration reaffirmed DA-Central Visayas' commitment to strengthening partnerships and delivering responsive agricultural programs and services. By recognizing the dedication of its workforce and the accomplishments of its partners, the agency continues to foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence toward a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agriculture sector in Central Visayas.

ATI-Central Visayas joins DA-7 Rice Convergence Initiative Planting Festival in Bohol

The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) – Central Visayas joined the Planting Festival for the second phase of the Rice Convergence Initiative (RCI) held on July 1, 2026, at Barangay Gabi, Ubay, Bohol.

Representing the Center were Engr. Rizaldy C. Mercadal, Agriculturist II; Engr. John Kenneth L. Pracullos, Technical Support Staff IV; Jovanie Picot, Admin Aide and Peter Mari Batingal, Assistant Accountant. The activity marked the start of the second cropping season for the 50-hectare model farm under the Department of Agriculture (DA)–Central Visayas' Rice Convergence Initiative.

The event was led by DA-Central Visayas Regional Executive Director (RED) Angel C. Enriquez and attended by members of the Executive Committee, DA personnel, rice cooperators from the municipalities of Carmen, Pilar, San Miguel, and Ubay, members of the GHP Fortunate Irrigators Association, Inc., Municipal Agriculturists, and Agricultural Technicians.

In her message, Director Enriquez encouraged farmers to apply the technologies and best practices they learned through the program, expressing confidence in their ability to improve rice productivity and livelihoods.

Building on the successful results of its first phase, the Rice Convergence Initiative continues to promote the adoption of recommended farming technologies, including the use of quality seeds, balanced fertilization, proper water management, mechanization, and other climate-smart production practices.

Through comprehensive support and strengthened collaboration among government agencies and farmers, the initiative aims to increase average rice yields from three to as much as six to seven metric tons per hectare, contributing to enhanced food security and sustainable rice production in Central Visayas.

📸 : Jessa Mae Itang

ATI-Central Visayas trains farmers, beneficiaries on coconut non-food product processing

BACONG, NEGROS ORIENTAL. The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) – Central Visayas successfully conducted the Training on Coconut Non-Food Products (Batch 3) from July 1 to 3, 2026, at Stella Maris Retreat House in South Poblacion, Bacong, Negros Oriental, equipping participants with practical skills in coconut value-adding and enterprise development.

The three-day training aimed to enhance the participants' knowledge and skills in processing coconut into high-value products, providing them with additional livelihood opportunities and promoting the efficient utilization of coconut resources.

Resource person John Leonard O. Calaycay, Agriculturist II from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Negros Oriental, discussed coconut processing technologies, quality standards, and the economic potential of coconut-based enterprises. Meanwhile, Ma. Reina P. Perez, LSA Cooperator and Farm Owner of Gazeboo de LOONdon Eco Farm, shared her practical experiences and demonstrated the production of value-added coconut products.

As part of the hands-on learning sessions, participants successfully produced Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), coco liniment, coco tuyo, and coconut soap, enabling them to apply the techniques learned during the training and explore these products as potential income-generating ventures.

The activity was facilitated by Project Officer Julie Ann G. Buhion with the assistance of Jeffrey O. Awas, MADev, RAgr, ensuring the smooth implementation of the training.

Through capacity-building initiatives such as this, ATI-Central Visayas continues to strengthen the entrepreneurial capabilities of coconut farmers and rural communities by promoting value-adding technologies that contribute to increased income, sustainable livelihoods, and the development of the coconut industry in Central Visayas.