Bataan farmers finish DAR – AES training

   Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Engr. Eric San Luis pointed out that under the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) program of the agency, complete sets of agricultural production equipment are provided for free to agrarian reform communities (ARCs).

   Bicol Binukawan Marketing Cooperative and Dinalupihan Multi-Purpose Cooperative were already given each a set of equipment currently servicing Dinalupihan and Bagac ARCs, respectively. The two farmers’ cooperatives are charging reasonable fee to farmers availing the equipment.

   San Luis announced that Bataan ranks No. 1 nationwide in the implementation of ARCCESS program. He also said that as DAR continues to provide agricultural equipment, it likewise extends trainings to members of agrarian reform organizations.

   The AES is one of the trainings the agrarian reform cooperatives need to undergo as part of the ARCCESS program. He explained that 5 modules were developed by UMIC International for specific crops. He said one module for a particular crop has been taught to at least 5 farmers. “Farmers have specific practices in growing a particular crop, the role of the professional service provider is to develop a module to ensure productivity”, the PARO added.

   San Luis pointed out that trained farmers became paratechnicians who in turn can train other farmers in their respective areas. The training was designed to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of farmers who will serve as trainers of other farmers.

   Farmers from Palauig and San Marcelino towns in Zambales have also completed the AES training. San Luis is PARO of both Bataan and Zambales.