ATI Region 2 Launches FITS Center in Iguig to Expand Agricultural Technology and Information Access
Farmers and fisherfolk in Iguig, Cagayan now have greater access to agricultural technologies, training, and research-based information following the launch of a new Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center. The initiative, led by ATI Region 2 and its partners, aims to strengthen technology transfer, improve agricultural productivity, and bring innovation closer to farming communities.
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IGUIG, Cagayan — Farmers and fisherfolk in Iguig now have greater access to agricultural technologies, learning resources, and extension services following the launch of the Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center and the turnover of logistical support on July 8, 2026, at the Municipal Agriculture Sub-Office in Barangay Minanga Norte.
The initiative was led by the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 02) in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Iguig and several government, academic, and research institutions, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to modernizing agriculture through knowledge, technology, and collaboration.
The event gathered local government officials, representatives from national agencies, academic institutions, youth representatives, and members of the farming community who will directly benefit from the services offered by the new FITS Center.
Bringing Technology Closer to Farmers
During the program, Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Ventura D. Zinampan, Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, thanked ATI-RTC 02 for its continued support to the municipality’s agricultural sector.
He described the FITS Center as a “home of knowledge” for farmers and fisherfolk, where they can access updated agricultural information, educational materials, and technologies that can help improve farm productivity and livelihoods.
As agriculture continues to evolve alongside new technologies, accessible information centers have become increasingly important in helping local producers adopt modern farming and fishing practices while remaining competitive and resilient.
The Role of the Techno Gabay Program
A key part of the launch was the presentation of the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) by Mr. Vladimir B. Caliguiran, Chief of the Information Services Section of ATI-RTC 02.
The Techno Gabay Program serves as ATI’s primary technology transfer initiative, helping bridge research institutions and farming communities through the establishment of FITS Centers across the country.
Through these centers, farmers gain access to research-based technologies, Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, digital learning resources, and technical information designed to improve farm productivity, increase incomes, and support sustainable agricultural practices.
Caliguiran also highlighted the program’s continuing support for various agricultural sectors, including coconut farmers, by providing technologies and information tailored to their specific needs.
Universities and Research Institutions Strengthen the Ecosystem
The launch underscored the growing collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and higher education institutions in strengthening agricultural innovation throughout Cagayan Valley.
Representatives from Cagayan State University (CSU) and the Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CVAARRD) reaffirmed their commitment to expanding research, technology transfer, and extension services that directly benefit farming communities.
The participation of academia highlights the increasingly important role universities play not only in conducting research but also in ensuring that innovations reach farmers who can apply them in the field.
Investing in Better Extension Services
As part of the program, ATI-RTC 02 formally turned over logistical support to the Municipal Agriculture Office to strengthen the operations of the new FITS Center.
The support package included:
Printer
Flat-screen television
IEC racks
Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials
Additional equipment for agricultural extension services
According to Municipal Agriculturist James C. Balubal, these resources will help improve the delivery of information, training, and advisory services to farmers and fisherfolk across the municipality.
He added that the Municipal Agriculture Office remains committed to expanding programs that enhance the knowledge, skills, and livelihoods of local agricultural communities.
Preparing Farmers and the Next Generation
In her response message, Dr. Claris Marayag Alaska, Center Director of ATI-RTC 02, encouraged farmers to maximize the FITS Center by taking advantage of its learning resources, internet connectivity, and technology information.
She also emphasized the importance of adopting Integrated Farming Systems, where crop production is combined with poultry or livestock enterprises to diversify income sources, reduce production risks, and build more resilient farm businesses.
Beyond supporting existing farmers, Dr. Alaska also highlighted ATI-RTC 02’s youth development initiatives, including internships and experiential learning opportunities designed to encourage more young people to pursue careers and entrepreneurship in agriculture.
As the average age of Filipino farmers continues to rise, engaging the next generation has become one of the sector’s most important long-term priorities.
Why It Matters
While startup ecosystems often focus on digital technology, innovation in Northern Luzon is equally being built in agriculture.
The opening of another FITS Center reflects a broader effort to strengthen the region’s agricultural innovation ecosystem by ensuring that scientific research, modern technologies, and practical knowledge are accessible to farmers where they are needed most.
As more municipalities establish technology and information hubs, collaborations among ATI, local governments, universities, and research institutions are helping create stronger foundations for sustainable agriculture, higher farm productivity, and more resilient rural communities across Cagayan Valley.
Original Source
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