At least 30 members of various farmers’ groups within Baguio City and Benguet participated in the KITA (Kapital at Ipon Tungo sa Asesnso) Mo Na! Financial Education Training conducted by the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera (DA-CAR) and Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) yesterday, March 27, at the DA-CAR’s Conference Hall, Guisad, Baguio City.

The training was designed in a form of a game, making it more personal and interactive among the participants. It was facilitated by Mr. Marcial Lloyd Bayangan, ACPC focal Person for Benguet, as the ‘Game Master’ and was assisted by the ‘Bankers’ . The participants were also categorized into farmers, fishers, and livestock and poultry raisers. They went through a 10-day financial management simulation with a twist, putting into considerations their daily living expenses, income, credit, insurance, and unexpected scenarios like contributions to gatherings and house fires which could affect their budget management.

Overall, the training was structured around six key messages for farmers and fishers. These key messages are: being wise with debt, increasing income through business ventures and additional skills, saving for the future, being insured to be protected, being critical to avoid scams and being nurturing to the environment.

Prior to the training game, Mr. Bayangan presented the various ACPC agri-fishery loan programs along with the documentary requirements and qualifications.//JBAgrifino