From Theory to Field: AMTEC Leads Hands-On CTE Training in Davao del Norte
By: Marc Noel G. Bathan

The Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC), in collaboration with the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (DA-BAFE), spearheaded a week-long Training on the Testing and Performance Evaluation of Rice Machinery and Equipment from May 5 to 9, 2025, held at the ATI-RTC XI Training Hall in Datu Abdul Dadia, Panabo City, Davao del Norte. Notably, the training was sponsored and facilitated by ATI-RTC XI.
As the Philippines’ premier reference center for agri-fishery machinery testing, AMTEC is mandated under Republic Act No. 10601 (Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Law or AFMech Law) to help train new test engineers nationwide. In partnership with DA-BAFE and various DA Regional Field Offices (RFOs), AMTEC conducts training programs to expand the pool of Certified Test Engineers (CTEs) and strengthen national capacity in ensuring that only high-quality, productivity-enhancing agricultural machinery reaches Filipino farmers.

A total of thirty-two (32) licensed Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (ABEs) from LGUs, DA-RAED, ATI, and other agencies in the Davao Region participated in the training. The sessions were conducted by AMTEC engineers: Engr. Romulo E. Eusebio, Engr. Glory Yster M. Reginio, and Engr. John Paul A. Palillo. Moreover, they covered various methods and procedures for machinery testing, such as verification of specifications, instrument use and calibration, and test report preparation.
Additionally, the early part of the training also focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of DA-BAFE’s role, which involves formulating and enforcing regulations and standards for agricultural and fisheries machinery to ensure their quality, safety, and performance. These types of machinery include rice mills, mechanical rice transplanters, and walking-type agricultural tractors. Engr. Arjay P. Sabasaje and Engr. Francis Glenn M. Miro (DA-BAFE) led the discussion and presentation of the introductory sessions, which covered the Overview of Department Circulars 01 and 02, Series of 2023, and Acceptance Testing for Agricultural and Fisheries Machinery.

The program was structured into two days of lectures, one day of hands-on fieldwork, and one day dedicated to test report drafting, culminating in a certification examination on the final day. To reinforce their theoretical knowledge, participants engaged in actual field testing exercises, applying learned concepts in real-world conditions. They were then tasked with preparing and presenting detailed test reports based on their fieldwork. Successful participants were awarded their official CTE certifications for the specific machines they were trained on.

A quote shared during the training aptly captured its spirit:
“This five-day training is not just about machines—it’s about sharpening your skills, deepening your impact, and ensuring that the technologies we use truly serve our farmers. Embrace the challenge, because your expertise drives agricultural progress.”
Most importantly, AMTEC reaffirms its commitment to public service by equipping agricultural professionals with the skills and credentials needed to support the sector’s growth. In the coming months, AMTEC and DA-BAFE will continue to roll out more training programs, continually improving content and delivery to maximize their impact.
