The Transformative Impact of Agricultural Tools on TechVoc Scholars

Written by Allyssa Mae Briones and Rafael Seño

In Marinduque, a transformative initiative is taking root, empowering agriculture scholars with the tools they need to cultivate success.

Cristel Mae Rogelio, a former TESDA-STEP (Special Training for Employment Program) scholar, is a shining example of how access to essential agricultural tools can revolutionize farming practices and uplift communities.

A Journey of Growth and Learning

Cristel participated in the Plant Crops leading to Agricultural Crops Production NC II training at the Kaluppâ Foundation from October 17 to 29, 2023. Under the guidance of trainers Rafael Seño and Allyssa Mae Briones, she and her fellow scholars delved into the intricacies of land preparation, field layout, soil sampling, fertilizer applications, and transplanting.

This comprehensive training was complemented by the provision of a toolkit, including a manual knapsack sprayer, bolo, pale, and shovel, thanks to the collaborative efforts of 1-Rider Party-List Representative Bonifacio Bosita, TESDA Marinduque, and the Kaluppâ Foundation. The funding ensured that scholars received the support they needed to succeed in the agriculture industry.

Tools of Transformation

The agricultural tools provided to Cristel and her peers have proven to be more than just instruments; they are catalysts for change. These tools have enabled the scholars to enhance their efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in farming.

The manual knapsack sprayer, for instance, has streamlined the process of applying pesticides, reducing physical strain and increasing precision. The bolo, pale, and shovel have made land preparation and planting more manageable, allowing the scholars to focus on optimizing their crop yields.

Cultivating Success

With the right tools at their disposal, Cristel and her family have transformed their farming business. Initially planting cucurbits and leafy vegetables, they soon expanded to ampalaya, eggplant, chili, and sitaw, achieving impressive harvests. The free toolkits has alleviated the financial burden of purchasing essential items, enabling them to invest in high-quality seeds and sustainable practices. By producing their own fertilizers using rice hull, rice straw, and carbonized rice hull (CRH), they have reduced their reliance on inorganic alternatives, fostering a more eco-friendly approach to farming.

A Ripple Effect

The benefits of these tools extend beyond individual scholars. Cristel's farming success has had a positive impact on her community, providing fresh produce to local markets and contributing to food security.

The increased productivity and efficiency have allowed her to supply vegetables to the "talipapa," canteen, and neighbors in Sitio Malabon, Napo, Santa Cruz, Marinduque. This ripple effect underscores the importance of equipping future farmers with the resources they need to thrive.

Gratitude and Hope

Cristel's story is one of gratitude and hope. She expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Kaluppâ Foundation, TESDA, and Congressman Bonifacio Bosita for their unwavering support. The tools have not only eased the workload in her garden but have also enabled her to harvest significant quantities of vegetables, such as 24 kilograms of ampalaya and 5 kilograms of sitaw from a single plot. These achievements highlight the profound impact of the agricultural toolkits on the lives of TESDA scholars.

A Brighter Future

As Cristel and her fellow scholars continue to cultivate their dreams, the agricultural tools provided by TESDA stand as symbols of empowerment and progress. These tools have unlocked new possibilities, allowing them to improve their farming practices, support their families, and contribute to their communities. The initiative serves as a testament to the power of education, collaboration, and innovation in shaping a brighter future for agriculture in Marinduque.

\\ The Kaluppâ Foundation Team