To ensure the sustainability of the Department of Agriculture-Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) projects in Central Visayas, some 50 staff from SAAD and banner programs, participated in a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) held from June 3 to 5, 2025, in Cebu City, Cebu.
The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of the DA7 personnel for a sustainable agriculture.
One of the key topics discussed was on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a sustainable strategy that combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical method to manage pests while minimizing risks to the economy, environment, and human health.
As to the challenges brought by climate change, the topic on Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) to include the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiatives in Agriculture (AMIA) and climate resilient agriculture (CRA) principles were presented. The participants explored the regional and provincial seasonal climate outlooks and advisories , engaging them in practical exercises, such as crafting a 10-day weather forecast incorporating the technical inputs of climate-resilient practices and commodity-specific farm advisories.
Another topic was on soil fertility situation in Central Visayas, of which they (participants) were taught on the causes of soil degradation and explored sustainable solutions.
They underwent hands-on workshop using the Soil Test Kit allowing them to analyze soil health on-site. They were also introduced to soil health management strategies and initiatives from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM).
DA7-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Dr. Wilberto O. Castillo, shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive field experience, emphasizing how IPM, Soil Health Management, and Climate-Smart Agriculture play crucial roles in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
He expressed his hope that the participants will apply the knowledge and skills they gained from the training in their respective areas.
Through this comprehensive training, DA-SAAD7 aims to empower its staff with the tools and knowledge necessary to promote long-term sustainability in agriculture across Central Visayas. This knowledge will be cascaded to SAAD farmer-beneficiaries through another round of capacity-building training scheduled for later this month.
