TLDR: Over 40 farmers in Eastern Visayas have undergone training in artificial intelligence (AI) and social media to bolster their online income. This initiative, a collaboration between DA ATI-RTC 8, Visayas State University, PLDT Inc., and Smart Communications, covered essential topics such as social media marketing, content creation, and introductory Generative AI.
More than 40 farmers from the Eastern Visayas region recently participated in a comprehensive training program focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and social media skills. The program, held at the Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City, Leyte, aimed to equip farmers with the necessary tools to improve their livelihoods in the digital space. This collaborative effort was spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 8 (DA ATI-RTC 8) and Visayas State University, in partnership with PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), under the PLDT Group’s eBizNovation program.
The training curriculum was designed to be practical and immediately applicable, covering key areas such as social media marketing, effective content creation, and beginner-friendly Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI). Concepcion Miro, assistant center director of DA ATI-RTC 8, expressed gratitude to the partners and VSU’s agribusiness students, highlighting the value of shared knowledge. Miro stated, “This is a good avenue for farmers and students to share and leverage their strengths as we work toward helping grow farming businesses, especially in the digital space.”
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Allan Capa, president of the VSU Society of Agribusiness Students, emphasized the program’s role in fostering connections, noting that the event “helped bridge our gaps and form valuable connections” with the participating farmers. Marylou Gocotano, Stakeholder Engagement-Visayas Relations head at PLDT and Smart, underscored the importance of empowering farmers in the digital age. In a statement to SunStar Philippines, Gocotano remarked, “These are the people who feed our country. This is why we will always be ready to help empower our farmers through training programs that can help them thrive in the digital age.” Beyond digital marketing and AI, PLDT and Smart also provided guidance on internet safety protocols, helping farmers navigate the online world securely and avoid potential scams. The initiative reflects a concerted effort to integrate modern technology into traditional farming practices, paving the way for enhanced economic opportunities for farmers in Eastern Visayas.
