The extent of the impacts of the LIFE model is packaged into a LIFE Guidebook and was launched in Mindanao to inspire the decision-makers of possible adoption by incorporating the LIFE model into their extension programs.
The LIFE model or “Livelihood Improvement through Facilitated Extension,” was developed through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Mindanao Agricultural Extension Project (AMAEP). The project is a collaboration among Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University in Melbourne; the Landcare Foundation of the Philippines Inc (LFPI), University of the Philippines Mindanao (UPM), University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
Following the success of the webinar held on June 22, 2021, a series of LIFE fora is being conducted focusing on development agencies like the Mindanao Development Authority, provincial local government units (PLGUs), education institutions, and project teams involved in extension delivery.
The first leg of the series in Mindanao commenced in South Cotabato on July 13-15,followed by Zamboanga Sibugay on July 21-23, and Maguindanao on July 22. The local forum series is themed, “A Celebration of LIFE, the Gains and Impact.” The July 13 event was graced by Koronadal City Mayor Atty. Eliordo U. Ogena and featured on Facebook with 14k views.
From 2013 to 2020, AMAEP developed and tested a new extension model for improving livelihoods in conflict vulnerable agricultural communities of Mindanao. In all pilot project sites, LIFE has produced rapid and significant change in the farmers’ livelihoods.
The extent of the change was recognized in 2017 by DOST-PCAARRD, which funded a major collaborative project to expand and further validate LIFE under an institutional research partnership with UP Mindanao. The three projects represent the first major funding collaboration between ACIAR and PCAARRD involving the significant outcomes of an ACIAR project.
The result of the partnership is presented in a series of fora, together with the launching of the LIFE Book consisting of a reference book, video library, and a training manual. The package provides information on how to incorporate the LIFE Model into extension programs including potential cross sectors such as health and education. The reference book was funded by ACIAR’s Publications Unit in Canberra, while the LIFE training manual and online LIFE video library was funded by DOST-PCAARRD. (Audrey O. Lapitan, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services)
