W. Visayas agri-fishery info officers train on knowledge management, content creation

To strengthen inter-agency communication and enhance the delivery of timely and accurate agricultural information, the Department of Agriculture–Western Visayas (DA-WV), through its Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (RAFIS), conducted the Information Officers’ Quarterly Meeting and Seminar on January 28–30, 2026, in San Remigio, Antique.

The three-day activity was attended by Information Officers from DA-WV attached agencies, including the Philippine Coconut Authority, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, Bureau of Animal Industry, National Food Authority, National Irrigation Administration, and the Philippine Carabao Center.

Sonie Guanco, DA’s Agricultural Program Coordinating Office for Antique, underscored the important  role of information officers in bridging government agencies and stakeholders, particularly farmers and fisherfolk.

“The role of information officers is essential as they connect agencies with the people they serve. Through effective communication, we hope to encourage more people to participate in our activities and interventions,” Guanco said.

The seminar featured two major lectures. The first, “Knowledge Management and Practices for Agricultural Information Officers,” was led by Mary Antonette G. Andarza of the Philippine Carabao Center. The second session, “Essential Elements for Government Content Creation on TikTok,” was facilitated by John D. Candelario of RAFIS. Each lecture included practical exercises that allowed participants to apply their learning through guided tasks.

Aside from the technical sessions, the activity also provided a platform for each agency to share their accomplishments and best practices, which may serve as references for other agencies in strengthening their communication strategies and outreach efforts.

DA-WV RAFIS Chief James Earl E. Ogatis expressed his hope that the knowledge gained from the seminar, coupled with the exchange of best practices, would help information officers further intensify their presence both in the field and across various social media platforms.

Through this initiative, DA-Western Visayas continues to enhance the capacity of its communication workforce, ensuring that accurate, relevant, and timely information reaches farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders across the region.###

Text by Je Erryl Shayne Esmao and Photos by Sheila Mae Cocjin & John Candelario (DA-RAFIS 6)