Published November 28, 2024 by Campus Information Office
Farmers and local leaders in Barangay Warat, Piat, Cagayan gathered on November 25-26, 2024, for a comprehensive two-day training program under the "TANGKIRAN CARES: Convergence of CSU-Gonzaga Resources for Socio-Economic, Agricultural, and Environmental Development of CSU-Adopted Barangays." The initiative aimed to equip participants with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills in agriculture, showcasing the commitment of Cagayan State University-Gonzaga (CSU-Gonzaga) to community development.
The training covered a wide array of topics, including swine production, entrepreneurial skills, tissue-cultured horticultural crop management, lowland vegetable production, and integrated pest management. Participants included key local figures such as Mr. Loreto M. Pacay Jr., Manager of Mabuhay Agri-Crop Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Mr. Mario B. Cannu, Chairman of the Cooperative’s Board; Barangay Konsehal Robert Pagirigan, SK Chairman Jessaley T. Casauay, and members of the Mabuhay Agri-Crop Multi-Purpose Cooperative.
The event commenced with Mr. Robert Paguirigan delivering the opening remarks, where he warmly welcomed the CSU-Gonzaga Research and Extension team, expressing gratitude for bringing the training to their community. Mr. Loreto M. Pacay Jr. echoed the sentiment in his welcome address, acknowledging the importance of the "Tangkiran Cares" program and commending CSU-Gonzaga for choosing their barangay as one of the beneficiaries.
Training Highlights
Swine Production: Dr. Vincent Jim Palor, TVET Coordinator and veterinarian, guided participants on the proper care of hogs, from conception to weaning, highlighting efficient livestock management practices.
Farmer Entrepreneurial Skills: Ms. Myraly L. Marcos, Campus Extension Coordinator, focused on improving the entrepreneurial capabilities of farmers to enhance their productivity and income.
Tissue-Cultured Horticultural Crops: Dr. Jayrome S. Butay, Dean of the College of Agriculture, discussed the management of tissue-cultured plants and encouraged participants to visit CSU-Gonzaga’s tissue culture laboratory to access banana plants available through the program.
Lowland Vegetable Production: Ms. Mylene Ermitanio, Campus Research Coordinator, shared valuable insights into vegetable cultivation, addressing the rising cost of vegetables in the market.
Integrated Pest Management: Ms. Sharina Mae Q. Fidel, Faculty of Agriculture and MABRIC Ambassadress, taught sustainable pest control techniques to improve crop yield while protecting the environment.
A Collaborative Success
The event concluded with Mr. Max Bancud, Barangay Konsehal, delivering the closing remarks. He expressed his gratitude to the CSU-Gonzaga team, emphasizing the practical value of the training and its relevance to the cooperative’s goals. Participants shared their feedback, noting that the training was timely and would help them achieve both food security and additional income through backyard farming.
On behalf of the CSU-Gonzaga CEO, Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr., Dr. Vincent Palor encouraged participants to approach their agricultural endeavors with passion, stating, "All the grants and knowledge we provide will only bear fruit if you have the drive and love for farming and livestock care." He also shared his personal experience as a multitasker, inspiring participants to embrace opportunities and overcome challenges.
The Tangkiran Cares program continues to make strides in advancing socio-economic and agricultural development, demonstrating the power of education and collaboration in transforming rural communities.
Photos: MIS Office
Source: Campus Extension Office