by Shawn Raven A. Laud
The Apayao State College (ASC), in partnership with Pacific Rim Innovation and Management Exponent Inc. (PRIMEX), proudly held the graduation ceremony for the Capability Development Program for the Flora Agricultural Cluster on August 19 at EKB Auditorium, RDE Building.
A total of 69 Cluster Management and Coordination Officers completed an intensive training program designed to strengthen their leadership, management, and technical competencies essential for agricultural development.
The program featured a series of specialized training sessions facilitated by the ASC Extension Services, which ran from June 17 to July 29. It began with Financial and Records Management, conducted by Assistant Professor Kriselle Donna A. Baletbet, BSBA Program Chair, and Instructor Daiann M. Paragas. This was followed by Agricultural Production and Management, led by Dr. Rowena Gasmeña, BSA Program Chair; Associate Professor Leilani A. Parugrug; Dr. Lorna Q. Caraang; and Dr. Geronimo Digma.
Project Proposal Writing was facilitated by Dr. Mirasol Agpuldo, Director for Extension Services and KTM; and Von Ryan S. Lumabao, Extension Staff. Rounding out the series was Leadership Skills, handled by Dr. Ronald O. Ocampo, Vice President for Academics, Research, Development, and Extension Services (VPARDES); and Krizzel D. Calaramo, Extension Staff. The graduates were formally presented by Dr. Agpuldo and officially conferred by ASC President Dr. John N. Cabansag, who reminded the participants that true leadership is anchored not on titles but on compassion, humility, and the ability to uplift others. He also expressed gratitude to PRIMEX, the Asian Development Bank, the Provincial Government of Apayao, the Local Government of Flora, as well as ASC’s RDE team, faculty, and staff.
Representing PRIMEX National Leader Dr. Roberto R. Acosta, Community Organizer George Natividad highlighted that by applying the lessons learned, they can achieve better livelihoods and greater success in their work. “It is also our hope that you will share these learnings with your fellow community members, so that together we can help improve the quality of life of all farmers here in Apayao,” he added.
Similarly, Dr. Ocampo highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration as a foundation for continued engagement and success.
