The program started with an opening remark delivered by Prof. Glenda Nad, who emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and how mushroom production could serve as an additional livelihood opportunity for the community. She was grateful for the community’s eagerness to learn and encouraged them to use their new knowledge to improve their livelihoods. This was followed by a warm welcome message from Ms. Mary Grace Pacleb, one of the participants, who expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the training. She highlighted how fortunate the participants were to receive such valuable knowledge and expressed her hope that ASCOT would continue to provide training programs that could help improve the livelihoods of local families.

Following the welcome remarks, Mr. Jomer B. Mangawang, Assistant Professor I led a discussion on the SOGIE Bill. He explained the significance of the bill in promoting equality and protecting individuals from discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. He emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting diversity within the community, encouraging an open dialogue among participants.

Ms. Rica Nicole Y. Napoles, Instructor I then introduced the participants to mushroom production. She discussed the basics of oyster mushroom farming, including its benefits, the necessary materials, and the step-by-step process involved. She emphasized the economic potential of mushroom cultivation and how it can serve as an additional source of income for farmers and households.

One of the highlights of the training was the hands-on demonstration led by Ms. Chenie Mae T. Bibon. She guided participants in the preparation of mushroom fruiting bags, explaining the proper techniques for packing, sterilizing, and inoculating the bags with mushroom spawn. She also discussed the maintenance of fruiting bags, including the right conditions for incubation and fruiting to ensure a successful harvest. Participants actively took part in the demonstration, gaining practical experience in handling and managing mushroom production materials.

The training included lectures and hands-on demonstrations. Facilitators explained the step-by-step process of mushroom production, from substrate preparation to harvesting. Mushroom experts guided participants and answered questions and the participants actively engaged in discussions and activities. The session covered the benefits of mushroom farming, proper cultivation methods, and common challenges such as contamination and temperature control. The importance of hygiene and good resource management was also discussed to help ensure better yields.

At the end of the training, four participants shared their impressions of the event. Ms. Mary Grace Pacleb, Domar Madarang, and Ladylyn Balbuena expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn about mushroom production. They were thankful for the support of ASCOT in helping uplift their livelihoods and assisting their community in recovering from the effects of the recent typhoon that had significantly impacted their means of living. Their testimonies highlighted the importance of such training in empowering local farmers and providing them with new opportunities for sustainable income.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Lani Redubla expressed heartfelt thanks to the facilitators, especially to ASCOT, for organizing the valuable training. She acknowledged the importance of the knowledge gained during the sessions, especially in light of the challenges faced by the community. She also encouraged fellow participants to continue applying what they had learned and to share their knowledge with others in the community, fostering growth and sustainability for everyone involved.

Overall, the training successfully provided participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to engage in oyster mushroom production. Continued support and monitoring will be essential in ensuring its sustainability and success in Sitio Bulos.