Market-oriented Agri-Technology and Agri-Extension Services for Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) for Isabela

Market-oriented agri-technology and agri-extension services (AES) was conceptualized after need/design assessment. It is a component of DAR-ARCESS particularly harnessing Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) to become skilled and equip with business knowledge align to the enterprise they have engaged in. Generally, this AES aims to provide trainings/technology transfer/coaching along the commodity/areas on value chain strategy for the Agrarian Reform Communities in Isabela. Specifically, it aimed to: 1) strengthen farm efficiencies and productivity of rice and corn farmers; 2) enhance rice and corn farmers' knowledge on postharvest; 3) improve value-adding activities of rice and corn farmers; 4) enrich rice and corn farmers' knowledge on Common Service Facilities operations and maintenance; and 5) establish pool of technical experts. There were five lead ARBOs who participated in this project classified into rice and corn based agri-enterprises. Various extension modalities were adopted to attain project objectives. Activities were highlighted by two season long training programs on rice and corn as venue for technology lectures and demonstrations. The project outcomes are: a) 39 corn and 93 rice farmers trained field technicians; b) two field exposures (Lakbay-Aral) for rice and corn to private and public agencies outside the region; c) conducted seminar-workshop on sustainability planning; and d) developed training manuals, modules, technoguide and IEC materials for both crops. Farmers have attained greater knowledge, developed their farming skills and more confident in doing farming business. They have improved relationships, becoming closer and open minded individuals. The lead ARBOs farm-technicians must do their share to disseminate what they have learned to other farmers constituent ARBOs. The DARPO must provide assistance to them for program development, financial and other logistics for the conduct of field extension services. The DAR must follow – up and conduct periodic evaluation to lead ARBOs for the implementation of sustainability plan.