The Techno Gabay Program (TGP) provides modalities for effective and efficient delivery of information and technology services in agriculture and natural resources sector. This program is being implemented by CLARRDEC under PCARRD initiative. It involves integration of PCARRD initiated projects like the Farmers Information and Technology Services (FITS); Farmers Scientist Bureau (FSB) or Magsasakang Siyentista; Information, Education and Communication Strategies (IEC) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
The TGP was started in 1998 by CLARRDEC and the program was piloted in Magalang, Pampanga and Baler, Aurora. With the financial support from Senator Edgardo J. Angara, a total of P2.4M was released to the province of Aurora to put up seven FITS Center.
In 2001, the FITS, FSB, IEC, and ICT were conceptualized to be put-up in complementation with each other in one area under the Techno Gabay Program.
As of December 2001, there were eight (8) FITS centers in Aurora and one in Pampanga. The centers had conducted 47 trainings, 5 technology fora, 6 meetings and 144 technical assistance. A total of 2,113 print materials were reproduced and distributed to various types of clienteles. Video, documentaries, technoguides were shown to clients/users. Technology services were provided to target beneficiaries.
For year 2002, the TGP team introduced the concept to six SUCs in Region 3 who are members of CLARRDEC. They plan to put up FITS center in their college/university.
In Nueva Ecija, the project team targeted to introduce and hopefully start the FITS in 11 sites. Negotiation and advocacy were made. Once the FITS centers have been established, the other components like IEC, FSB and ICT will also be implemented.
