CARRDEC opens two new FITS centers

The regional success of the Techno Gabay Program (TGP) has earned the interest of many Local Government Units (LGUs). More LGUs are now interested in establishing a TGP Farmers’ Information and Technology Servcies (FITS) center in their localities.

In the Cotabato region, the Cotabato Agriculture Resources Research and Development Consortium (CARRDEC) recently opened two new LGU-based centers - Alabel FITS and the North Cotabato Provincial FITS.

The two new centers were officially launched last 30 July 2007 in two separate ceremonies graced by no less than the Mayor of Alabel, Hon. Corazon S. Grafilo, and the Cotabato Provincial Administrator, Engr. Jerry Beldad representing Governor Jesus Sacdalan.

Grafilo, in her message expressed hope that with the FITS center, local farmers and fisherfolks would be given better opportunities for greater productivity and income and for a better quality of life.

Beldad was optimistic that through the FITS center, farmers will be better equipped with technologies and information that would help them in their farming activities.

PCARRD representatives, led by Dr. Bessie M. Burgos, Director for Technology Outreach and Promotion graced the unveiling of the FITS centers. Burgos encouraged greater cooperation among agencies involved in the TGP.

The TGP, since its implementation in 1997 has established 234 FITS centers all over the country. Of this number, 73% are LGU-based. It has also effectively drawn the participation and involvement of R&D centers, and other research agencies in bringing information and technologies to the farmers. (LM. Tolentino, CARRDEC)