LABASON, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE-The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), in partnership with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), successfully conducted the Batch 4 Capability Enhancement Training on Rice Machinery Operation and Basic Troubleshooting for farmer leaders from various Irrigators Associations (IAs) under the Clustered IA Cooperative of Labason Irrigators Agriculture Cooperative (LABIAGCO) on June 17-19, 2025.
The three-day training was held to boost the technical knowledge and operational skills of farmer-leaders in handling and maintaining rice machinery, supporting the national thrust for modernized and mechanized rice production. The training was facilitated by ATI Resource Speaker Mr. Nino O. Codino, who provided comprehensive lectures and hands-on demonstrations.
This initiative is part of the ongoing convergence program between NIA and ATI, designed to empower IAs with the right knowledge and tools to manage their equipment efficiently, reduce downtime due to machine issues, and promote sustainability in irrigated rice farming communities.
The continuous roll-out of this capability-building effort underscores the commitment of both agencies to strengthen farmer-led operations and ensure long-term productivity across irrigated areas in Zamboanga del Norte.