Our Story
The Aklan Agri-Aqua Demonstration Farm and Training Center (AAADFTC) was established by the Provincial Government of Aklan in Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, as part of its commitment to agricultural development and food security. Rooted in the province’s vision of a progressive agriculture and fisheries sector, the center was institutionalized through a local ordinance that outlined its governance, objectives, and funding.
Initially operating under the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA), the AAADFTC received an annual budget that increased over time, demonstrating the provincial government's support for its operations. The center was designed to serve as a hub for research, training, and technology transfer, providing valuable resources to local farmers, fisherfolk, students, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
As part of its mission, the AAADFTC developed partnerships with key institutions, including the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Aklan State University (ASU), and various government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
These collaborations enabled the center to offer specialized training programs, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences, making it a key venue for skills development in modern farming and aquaculture techniques. The center also became a site for research on sustainable agriculture, with facilities such as greenhouses, fish hatcheries, postharvest processing areas, and artificial insemination units for livestock. These efforts aligned with the province’s "Pagkaing Sapat Para sa Lahat, Aklan Aangat" program, which aims to ensure food sufficiency for all Aklanons.
Over the years, the AAADFTC has continued to expand and adapt to emerging agricultural trends, integrating innovative technologies and sustainable practices into its programs. Its governing board, composed of provincial leaders and agricultural experts, has played a crucial role in shaping its policies and ensuring its long-term viability.
The center has also fostered linkages with private sector partners and farmer associations, allowing for continuous improvements in its facilities and services. By strengthening its role as a center for agricultural excellence, the AAADFTC remains a vital institution in empowering Aklan’s farming and fishing communities, contributing to rural development and economic resilience in the province.