AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION IN THE PHILIPPINE SETTING

Summary

This video discusses the evolution of agricultural extension in the Philippines, tracing its history from Spanish colonization to modern-day practices. Key developments include the establishment of agricultural bureaus and training institutes, the role of local government units, and the involvement of non-governmental organizations in extension services. The script also highlights various information and communication technologies that support agricultural training, such as e-extension programs and farmer scientist initiatives. Overall, it provides a comprehensive overview of how agricultural extension has been institutionalized and modernized to support farmers and the agricultural sector in the Philippines.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Philippines' agricultural extension services have a rich history, starting with the Spanish colonization and evolving through various government and institutional changes.
• 😀 The Philippines adopted a pluralistic model of agricultural extension, with service providers including the central and local governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and private companies.
• 😀 Major institutions providing agricultural extension services in the Philippines include the Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Training Institute, and Local Government Units (LGUs).
• 😀 The Department of Agriculture oversees agricultural and fisheries extension, with various undersecretaries handling different areas such as extension services and local government support.
• 😀 The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) coordinates agricultural extension services, with a focus on leadership, excellence, and technology knowledge management.
• 😀 LGUs are mandated by the Local Government Code (RA 7160) to provide agricultural extension services, playing a key role in project implementation and national agricultural initiatives.
• 😀 Private institutions, including agribusiness companies and private universities, also contribute to agricultural extension, offering specialized services like input purchase and research.
• 😀 Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the Philippines, such as the Negros Island Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Foundation, actively engage in agricultural extension efforts.
• 😀 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a crucial role in modern agricultural extension through initiatives like the e-extension program, which offers online and offline courses, farm business advisory, and marketing services.
• 😀 The Philippine Rice Research Institute and other institutions have introduced programs like the Open Academy for Philippine Agriculture and the Farmers' Information and Technology Services (FITS) to make agricultural knowledge more accessible to farmers.
• 😀 The country's agricultural extension services have undergone various reforms over the years, with significant developments during the terms of different presidents, including the establishment of the Bureau of Agricultural Extension (BAEX) and the creation of key laws and programs.

Q & A

What is the history of agricultural extension services in the Philippines?

Agricultural extension services in the Philippines have evolved over centuries, beginning with the Spanish colonization when missionaries established model farms. The services expanded under U.S. rule with the creation of the Bureau of Agriculture in 1902, later transitioning to local government control after the 1990s decentralization.

What were the key developments during the Commonwealth period of the Philippines?

During the Commonwealth period, key developments included the establishment of the Division of Soil under Manuel A. Quezon, which encouraged agricultural business in Mindanao, and the formation of the Bureau of Agricultural Extension (BAEX) in 1952 to oversee agricultural services.

How did the Japanese occupation affect agricultural extension services in the Philippines?

The Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945 paralyzed agricultural extension services in the Philippines, hindering their development during this period.

What was the impact of the Agricultural Land Reform Code during Diosdado Macapagal's presidency?

Under President Diosdado Macapagal, the Agricultural Land Reform Code (RA 3844) was signed into law in 1963, aiming to promote land redistribution and improving agricultural productivity.

What is the significance of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA) of 1997?

The AFMA of 1997, created during the presidency of Fidel Ramos, aimed to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors by promoting sustainable farming practices, improved technology, and better infrastructure to boost productivity.

What are the main institutions providing agricultural extension services in the Philippines?

Key institutions providing agricultural extension services include the Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), local government units (LGUs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and various non-public institutions such as NGOs and private companies.

How do local government units contribute to agricultural extension services?

Local government units (LGUs) play a significant role in providing agricultural extension services as mandated by the Local Government Code (RA 7160), which empowers municipal governments to manage and deliver agricultural and fishery extension services.

What role do non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play in agricultural extension in the Philippines?

NGOs in the Philippines, such as the Negros Island Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Foundation, play a vital role in supporting agricultural extension by focusing on rural community development and sustainable farming practices.

What is the e-extension program for agricultural training in the Philippines?

The e-extension program, operated by the Agricultural Training Institute, offers online and offline courses, farm business advisory services, and marketing support, aiming to provide accessible agricultural education and technical assistance, particularly in rural areas.

What is the role of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in agricultural extension?

PhilRice leads the Open Academy for Philippine Agriculture (OPAPA), which develops and implements ICT-based agricultural training and extension services. It aims to bridge the gap between experts, farmers, and extension workers through digital platforms and interaction tools.