By Kenneth Marcos 
Amid the colorful street dances and lively music of the Abbagaoan Festival in Baggao, Cagayan, one vehicle stood out for a different reason. Instead of performers, it carried books, learning materials, and new opportunities for local farmers eager to improve their harvest and income.
The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), through its AgriExtension on Wheels program, joined the festival by revisiting Baggao to deliver agricultural reading materials and information services directly to farmers. The initiative aims to make technical knowledge more accessible and bring government support closer to rural communities.
As part of the activity, the municipality formally opened its Farmer’s Information and Technology Services (FITS) Center. The center will serve as an information hub where farmers can research modern farming technologies, improved crop management practices, and other practical methods to increase productivity and earnings.
Baggao is one of the agricultural towns in Cagayan, where farming remains a major source of livelihood. Many families depend on rice, corn, and high-value crops. Access to updated farming techniques, weather information, and market trends can make a significant difference in their income, especially amid rising production costs and climate challenges.
Vice Mayor Rowel B. Guzman said the local government is ready to support the operations of the FITS Center to ensure it delivers efficient and continuous service to farmers. He stressed the importance of strong cooperation between the local government and the agriculture sector to build a more stable and resilient local economy.
Dr. Claris Marayag-Alaska also congratulated the municipality on the successful launch of the FITS Center. She shared updates on training programs already conducted in Baggao and highlighted ongoing initiatives that farmers and their children can benefit from. These include scholarship opportunities and capacity-building programs aimed at strengthening both technical skills and leadership in rural communities.
Dr. Bryan Sibayan of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 02 attended the event, along with representatives from Rural Improvement Clubs and local officials. Their presence underscored continued support for the Municipal Agriculture Office and the broader goal of improving agricultural services in the province.
The AgriExtension on Wheels program is designed to reach farmers who may not have easy access to training centers or digital resources. By bringing printed materials, advisory services, and learning tools directly to towns and barangays, ATI hopes to narrow the information gap in rural areas.
The launch of the FITS Center in Baggao marks another step toward strengthening grassroots agricultural support. With better access to knowledge and modern technology, farmers can make informed decisions about crop selection, pest control, soil management, and post-harvest practices.
As the Abbagaoan Festival celebrates unity and local pride, the introduction of new agricultural services adds a deeper meaning to the occasion. Beyond festivities, it highlights the town’s commitment to empowering its farmers and investing in long-term food security.
For many in Baggao, the message is clear: progress in agriculture begins with access to the right information. With sustained support from national agencies and the local government, farmers can look forward to stronger harvests and more secure livelihoods in the years ahead.
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