Learning from Experience: Learning and Demo Site Visit Enriches Farmers and Fisherfolks’ Day 2025
This year’s Farmers and Fisherfolks’ Day (FFD) offered more than just celebration—it brought learning to the heart of the event.
For the first time in years, the FFD program included a demo and learning site visit. It is a meaningful activity that provides a deeper purpose: to equip farmers and fisherfolk. They had the chance to witness new technologies, explore sustainable farming practices, and exchange insights.
Demo/learning sites were spearheaded by various departments and research centers, showcasing their commitment to innovation and knowledge sharing. This year’s learning session and demo sites were led by active Departments, Research Centers and Component Campuses.
To ensure a smooth FFD experience, participants were encouraged to pre-register by scanning a QR code, sign the attendance sheet at the registration area outside the Convention Center, and prepare for the parade. After the parade, they were assisted to look for the placards at the VSU Lower Oval and proceed to their chosen Learning and Demo Site Visit or Lecture Session.
A New Chapter
FFD is traditionally focused on ceremonies and recognitions, but this year’s celebration took a refreshing step. The Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation (OVPREI) have reimagined the event as not only a tribute to the hard work of the farmers and fisherfolk in the region, but also a platform for shared learning through integrating field-based experiences.
During the lecture, participants were able to engage and actively participate. They expressed appreciation to the new approach introduced during the FFD.
“This is something new for us. The lecture sessions are good. We have learned something.” said Ms. Alicia, a jackfruit farmer from Baybay City, Leyte.
Bridging Knowledge and Practice
The demo/learning site visit provided participants with exposure to sustainable practices in farming, aquaculture, integrated pest management, and climate-resilient farming, all guided by experts in the university.
Sessions allowed the attendees to ask questions, share feedback, and try technologies. It was a room where learning happens through meaningful conversations.
FFD is making a positive impact through providing practical insights that farmers and fisherfolks can apply to their work.
More Than a Demo Visit
While this is a new activity in FFD, the idea behind it isn’t new—it’s a return to learning by doing, something many older farmers fondly remember from past decades. Dr. Santiago T. Peña, Jr., VP for REI, believes that the inclusion of the demo/learning site is a strategy for more practical engagement and a way to make the annual celebration more relevant.
There was a clear sense among attendees that this year’s FFD meant more. The introduction of the demo/learning site didn’t just teach, it connected. It brought farmers, fisherfolk, youth, and experts together in a shared space of learning.
And in that spirit, FFD 2025 didn’t just celebrate the present—it planted seeds for the future.
For the complete list of Demo and Learning Sites offered, click here.
