With the leadership of Executive Director Cheryl L. Eusala, Ph.D. to advocate for improved rubber technology, and the effort of the Department of Agriculture to uplift the rubber farming community in the Philippines, PRRI through its extension arm – the Rubber Technology and Extension Services Division (RTESD) has successfully conducted an extensive Capacity Development Training Program for 225 dedicated rubber farmers and tappers. This comprehensive program was held for two consecutive days, designed with five core modules, aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of smallholder rubber farmers nationwide.
In the whole month of May 2024, PRRI, in collaboration with the Provincial and Municipal Agriculture Offices, conducted the training across nine (9) municipalities all over Mindanao: Mati City, Davao Oriental (May 13-14), Panabo City, Davao del Norte (May 16-17), Antipas, Cotabato (May 15-16). Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay (May 21-22), Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte (May 22-23), Leon Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte (May 21-22), Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay (May 23-24), Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay (May 28-29), and Bayog, Zamboanga del Sur (May 30-31).
PRRI-RTESD has successfully shared the importance of incorporating improved rubber technology and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) during the sessions, together with the hands-on learning opportunities, which are a big help to our beloved rubber farmers. Recognizing that each community has distinct needs, RTESD team has tailored the training services to address specific local challenges.
This Capacity Development Program is primarily directed to supporting smallholder rubber farmers. In fact, Governor Ann K. Hofer, the author of the PRRI Act of 2010, which established the office of PRRI as a staff bureau of the Department of Agriculture, expressed her admiration for the program. She highlighted its critical role in uplifting the rubber farming community and enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
At this juncture, it is worth acknowledging the warmth, kindness, and support we get from our partner collaborators in this endeavor: the Provincial Local Government Units (PLGU) and the Local Government Units (LGU). Without their much-needed support, these training programs would not have materialized. Our heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation for your generous spirits. Mabuhay po kayo! Tayo ay tungo sa maunlad na Pilipinas and Philippine rubber industry!
– JULIUS G. BIOLANGO
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