Boodle Fights and Big Machines: A Farmer's Training Adventure

Hello again Hivers Community!
Today, I’m sharing a feel-good story that proves learning can actually be super fun—especially when it’s done in the rice fields, surrounded by wonderful people, laughter, and food (of course, Filipino style)
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This week was a special one for us learners—it’s our actual performance week, where we finally get our hands dirty (literally!) and learn how to operate various farm machineries. Now, you might think: “How fun can farm equipment be?
Well hivers, let me take you through our week because it was both educational and full of good vibes!
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We started the week with a simple yet insightful lecture on how to operate the sprayer—yes, that very common tool that you’d often see in every farm. Most of us see it almost daily, right? But this time, we weren’t just supposed to use it—we had to name each part, from the tiniest nozzle to the main tank! My goodness, that’s when the real fun began.
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It was honestly hilarious how something so familiar could suddenly feel so foreign. We were like, “Wait, what do you call this again?” It made me realize how often we overlook the little parts of everyday tools that actually play a BIG role in successful farming. We were all laughing at ourselves while trying to memorize the parts. It was humbling and hilarious at the same time!
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The next day, we leveled up! We had actual hands-on training with the grass cutter. Now you might ask, “Why grass cutter?” It’s because in modern rice farming, grass cutters are used to clean the ditches to help minimize pest and disease infestations. I had this “Aha!” moment because despite all my years on the farm, I never really had the time to operate these machines myself. Not because I’m lazy—don’t get me wrong!—I was just too busy with a million other things.
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But this time, I told myself, “You know what? I’ll do it!” So I did! Suprisingly wow! it was actually so much fun. I felt like a kid trying out a cool new toy (except this one can trim grass like a beast, haha!).

And then today came—the most exciting part of all: we got to learn how to drive the Combine Harvester and the Tractor!
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Now this was a totally different level. I have always seen these big machines on the farm every planting season and during our trainings. I called them “monster machines” growing up because they looked huge and powerful!
But I never dared to drive them not until now. This time, I didn’t have a choiceas a trainor myself I needed to—we are being assessed soon to get our NCII, and this license will allow me to officially teach this TESDA qualification to future learners. So, no backing out now!
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And let me tell you, it was amazing. These machines are total game-changers in farming. They make everything—from land prep to harvesting—so much faster and more efficient. Gone are the days of backbreaking manual work that took days, even weeks. With these modern farm innovations (thanks to RCEF support and government programs from Duterte’s time), rice farming is becoming easier and more productive. Truly, technology and farming now go hand in hand.

But you know what truly made this week extra special? It wasn’t just the machines, the knowledge, or even the license we’re working toward. It was the camaraderie and genuine friendships we built along the way.
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Every day after our training, some of our classmates would take on the role of cooks, preparing food for everyone. We all contributed a little cash and bought rice, fish, and drinks—simple joys shared with warm hearts. We even decided to do a traditional “boodle fight”—that classic Filipino style of eating together on banana leaves, with food beautifully arranged in the middle for everyone to share. Hands-on. No plates. No fuss. Just us, laughing and enjoying every bite under the warm sun.
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It reminded me so much of my younger days, back when my dad would lead harvests and we’d gather around for simple meals after a long day in the field. These shared moments bring out the true Filipino spirit—family, unity, and food shared with love.
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So, my dear hivers, this week has been more than just learning farm machinery. It’s been a reminder of my roots, my purpose, and the joy of embracing both tradition and innovation. Learning can be fun, fulfilling, and even heartwarming—especially when shared with kindred souls.

Till my next post!Stay happy, stay grounded, and never stop learning!

With muddy boots and a happy heart.
Farmer Aliza at your service !

PS: Pictures on cover edited in Canva.