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“There
is a remarkable difference in productivity between Techno Gabay
and non-Techno Gabay farmers. For example, in Isabela and in Region
8, yields per hectare were greater by 1.25 MT corn and 0.76 MT rice
respectively. Net income difference is more than 100%.”
This
was the statement of Dr. Albert P. Aquino, PCARRD Director for Socio-economics
Research and Coordinator of the project “Performance Evaluation
and Impact Assessment of the PCARRD
Techno Gabay Program (TGP)” in an interview for the “Bago
Yan Ah” radio program of DZMM last 24 June.
Aquino
told news anchor Angelo Palmones that his project team, which recently
completed the initial TGP assessment in 14 regions, documented a
significant increase in productivity and technical efficiency of
farms given TGP’s extension services. These translated to
additional income for the farmers.
“TGP
modalities are integral to other extension modalities of the government
and other agencies,” added Aquino. He mentioned the Farmers’
Information and Technology Services (FITS) as a conduit of technology
and information through its referral services.
He
also said that the Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
component of TGP allows convenient access to information. One modality
under this is the PCARRD Short Message Service (SMS), which capitalizes
on mobile technology to deliver information from Magsasaka Siyentista
(MS) and other experts.
Aquino
also recognized the pivotal role of the MS in the success of TGP
and pointed out the importance of participation from all stakeholders.
“TGP
is a concerted effort among extension service providers and other
agencies including non-government organizations, the private sector
and state colleges and universities to efficiently deliver information
and technologies to farmers,” stressed Aquino.
In
his concluding statement, Aquino enthused, “With the improved
productivity and enhanced profitability for farmers, TGP proves
to be a good technology delivery modality to replicate.” (Princess
Alma B. Ani, S&T Media Service).
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