LGU Legazpi opens city’s first farm school in Bicol

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- The city government here introduces its inaugural farm school offering specialized courses in agricultural crops production. Mayor Geraldine Barrameda-Rosal disclosed that the City College of Legazpi, nestled in Buyuan village, has opened its doors, aiming to equip students with climate-smart farming expertise in just 42 days or 336 hours of training.

Under the visionary leadership of Mayor Rosal, this initiative, long championed by former Mayor and now Albay Governor Noel Rosal, finally takes shape, marking a significant stride in agricultural education for Legazpi’s 28 barangays.

Situated within the premises of Buyuan High School, the newly inaugurated institution promises to be a beacon of hope, empowering individuals to pursue meaningful careers in agriculture. Mayor Rosal underscores the significance of this endeavor as a gift to future generations, emphasizing its role in shaping the trajectory of the agricultural sector.

The curriculum, accredited by TESDA, offers courses tailored to meet the demands of modern farming practices, with the first batch focusing on bamboo farming. Mayor Rosal highlights the collaboration with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and TESDA, marking Legazpi as the trailblazer in implementing this specialized program.

Moreover, the city government extends 25 scholarships per batch, covering training expenses and providing starter kits, ensuring accessibility to all aspiring farmers. Vice Mayor Bobby Cristobal lauds the establishment of the City College of Legazpi as a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusive education, bridging the gap for students from outlying villages.

The journey towards realizing this dream has been a collective effort, with the ordinance for the creation of the City College of Legazpi approved in 2023, in alignment with CHED guidelines. TESDA Bicol Regional Director, Archie A. Grande, expresses pride in the partnership, emphasizing TESDA’s role in providing technical vocational education and training (TVET) to empower communities.

Governor-elect Noel Rosal, reflecting on the city’s educational landscape, acknowledges the evolution from two high schools to 16 institutions, with Legazpi City Science High School emerging as a beacon of excellence. He commends the city government’s commitment to agricultural education, paving the way for a brighter future for Legazpi’s youth.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond the classroom, resonating with village chieftain Ronaldo Miña of Buyuan, who sees it as a catalyst for economic growth and skill development in smart farming practices. As the City College of Legazpi takes root, it heralds a new era of opportunity and empowerment for Legazpi’s agricultural community, affirming the city’s dedication to educational excellence and sustainable development.

THE Legazpi City government’s agriculture office, alongside officials from the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Legazpi and former Legazpi city mayor Noel Rosal, celebrate the bountiful tomato harvest within the premises of the City College of Legazpi. This marks a significant milestone for the city as it inaugurates its first farm school, nestled in Buyuan village with the majestic backdrop of Mt. Mayon. (Rhaydz B. Barcia)