Empowered to Serve: Marife A. Duza’s Commitment to Livestock Excellence in Pilar Sorsogon

“Hindi ako magiging expert sa pig production kung hindi dahil sa ITCPH.” Mr. Jesryl A. Janopol is a 30-year-old Instructor at the Agusan Del Sur State University (ADSSU). In 2019, he took a leap of faith, registered for his first ITCPH training entitled National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry and shouldered all expenses himself. It was a bold move, but one that would shape his career. Because of his ITCPH training, specifically the National Trainers Course on Pig Husbandry (2019), National Trainers Course on Animal Waste Management and Utilization (2019), and the National Trainers Course on Swine Artificial Insemination (2020), Jesryl was assigned as the Swine- In-Charge and Coordinator of the Animal Science Program at ADSSU. “They expect that I have the capabilities already in swine production, and of course, I claimed it”. His expertise was put to the test in 2024. At the height of the ASF outbreak, the university’s livestock was severely affected. Reviving the university’s farm was one of the biggest challenges he faced. Despite all the challenges, he continued to pursue the farm’s operations. Through perseverance and scientific management, the farm recovered. At present, it maintains 7 sows and 1 boar, with plans to expand by adding more boars and, eventually, selling semen to the community. Jesryl works closely with an animal caretaker. Recognizing the need for continuous learning, he generously shares his knowledge and promotes science-based swine production practices. Strict biosecurity measures, including perimeter fencing, mandatory showers before farm entry, footbaths, changing clothes, and restricting visitors, are fully implemented under his supervision. His learnings extend beyond production. Academic instruction, extension services, research, and farm management are all enriched by the skills and insights gained from ATI-ITCPH. According to him, the documents, materials, modules, and experiences from ITCPH trainings make it easier to convince farmers to adopt their practices. “I can persuade them because I experienced it myself” , he said. As the Swine-In-Charge, Jesryl envisions a future focused on profitability and sustainability. His long-term goals include establishing an AI Commercial Center, a meat shop, and a processing facility, creating a value chain that will benefit both the university and the local community. From a young instructor who once “threw his hat into the ring”, Mr. Janopol has grown into a leader in swine production, living proof that passion, training, and perseverance can turn a dream into a success story. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Napakalaking tulong ng mga natutunan ko sa ITCPH. Bilang isang guro sa SUC, na-share ko ang aking mga natutunan na later on ay sila naman ang may role sa agrikultura”. Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) is one of the institutions with a strong presence of faculty, participants, and alumni trained under ATI-ITCPH. It continues to serve as an agricultural research university aspiring to global standards. Among its notable ITCPH alumni is Mr. Joseph Nieva, a dedicated educator and agricultural professional whose journey reflects the true impact of quality training and lifelong learning. Mr. Nieva vividly recalls that during his college years, his former professors consistently emphasized one thing: “If you want to become an expert in pig production, you must attend ITCPH trainings”. From that moment, being trained at the ITCPH became one of his professional goals. It was achieved in 2015, when he successfully completed the National Trainers Course on Pig Husbandry. Looking back, he shares with joy. "Napakasaya at napakaganda ng training na ’yon. Ang dami kong nakilala na galing pa sa iba’t ibang lugar ng Pilipinas." For Mr. Nieva, being trained at an institution with “international” in its name meant exposure to global learning experiences and standards. Equipped with skills and confidence, he was entrusted with several key roles, including Animal Module Manager (CBSUA Animal Project), Coordinator for the AgroStudies Internship Program in Israel, Director for Institutional Linkages for Special Projects, and Project Lead for the Small Ruminant Project. These designations were testaments to his competence and commitment to service. One of the aspects Mr. Nieva values most about ITCPH is its “learning by doing” approach. He noted that, unlike other training centers that he had attended, ITCPH ensured that theoretical discussions were always complemented by hands-on activities. He also praised accommodating staff, well-maintained facilities, and the Center’s suitability as a benchmark site for swine production. As part of his re-entry plan, Mr. Nieva aimed to rehabilitate the university’s swine project, which includes seminars and training on pig husbandry. While budget constraints initially limited full implementation, CBSUA eventually allocated a budget to repopulate swine production, and Mr. Nieva was assigned to oversee its implementation. He acknowledged that biosecurity had previously been insufficient, but thanks to ITCPH, the university is now prepared and confident in resuming swine operations safely. Mr. Nieva holds on to his lifelong dream of seeing his students succeed in their chosen careers, especially in agriculture, and of witnessing them serve the Philippine government and the nation. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Sa ITCPH, kapag hindi ka nakinig o hindi mo initindi ang sinasabi ng mga teachers, kawalan mo iyon as participant.” “Practical” is the word Dr. Marily V. Figuracion uses to describe her training at the ITCPH. For her, the knowledge and skills she gained contributed not only to personal growth but also to professional growth as she shares them with farmers and fellow practitioners. Dr. Marily serves as Veterinarian II of the Municipality of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon. She also served as the Livestock Focal Person for ATI-RTC X. Her expertise significantly contributed to the ATI-NLP INSPIRE Project (Swine Multiplier Farm), which was awarded to the municipality. The local chief executive had the confidence to push through with the project, knowing that she was equipped in pig production. “Kahit beterinaryo na ako, gusto ko pang mas madagdagan ang kaalaman ko, lalo’t higit sa pig production.” Dr. Marily described the training as both a review and a revelation. What stood out most to her were the lessons on Economics and Stock Projection, which strengthened her understanding of pig enterprise management. "Sa ITCPH, bawal magtamad-tamadan. Laging may quiz, reporting at re-entry plan. Pero at the end of the day, mararamdaman mo ang fulfillment. The training has very high quality, kahit matagal ka nang nag-training, maalala mo pa rin ang iyong pinag-aralan" She completed five (5) trainings from the Center, namely National Trainer’s course on Pig Husbandry (2014), Training on Goat Production (2016), Training on Organic Agriculture for Livestock Technicians (2016), Refresher Course Growing Green Agritourism for Livestock and Agriculture Technicians (2016), and Pork to Fork Multiplying Business Opportunities for Inspire Beneficiaries (2025). Shortly after completing the training, Dr. Marily facilitates trainings, assists learning sites, and addresses various livestock-related concerns, with a strong focus on swine production. True to her commitment, she successfully fulfilled her re-entry plan by conducting Farmer Livestock School on Pig Production on September to November 2017, capacitating a total of 55 farmers and farming enthusiasts. Meanwhile, as part of the INSPIRE project, beneficiaries were required to undergo training before receiving piglets. Dr. Marily served as a resource person. With the assistance of her colleagues, she ensures that recipients have sufficient knowledge of pig husbandry. Looking ahead, Dr. Marily is aiming to take the Animal Feedmilling Technology Course, recognizing its importance to Cabanglasan, where corn is produced year-round. Learning how to formulate local feeds, she believes, will significantly help pig farmers reduce costs and improve productivity. Dr. Marily V. Figuracion’s professional journey is a testament to the fact that true expertise is built on a foundation of continuous learning and disciplined application. She will forever apply these #LearningByDoing principles as a veterinarian, trainer, and advocate for sustainable livestock development, especially in pig production. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

A millennial from Negros Oriental scales up his journey in public service and small business through commitment to work and love for family. Joey is a 28-year-old government employee whose passion for agriculture and degree in agriculture led him to pursue pig husbandry. Since 2020, Joey and his parents have begun venturing into pig farming, raising animals from their smallhold of two to three female pigs. Through a scientific approach to raising pigs, Joey was able to break the tradition and belief-based culture of pig farming. In the remote areas of the Philippines, there are also beliefs that pertain to animal production. One in particular says there are only certain months when sows are most receptive. Another is during a solar eclipse, pregnant sows must be thrown off with flowers to avoid abortion. These ideologies are turned into a science-based thinking through the help of agricultural extension workers. Hence, they are deemed very important in thriving farming communities. As an agricultural technician, Joey Derick I. Luzon holds a general understanding of agriculture, livestock, and poultry to provide the utmost service to farmers of Amlan. Most of his training experiences are relevant to livestock production. Receiving a referral from the Agricultural Training Institute, Central Visayas, he participated in the flagship program of the ITCPH – the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry in 2024. This is a 10-week training that gives extension workers the confidence, know-how, technical skills, and communication skills in conducting extension work in the field. Today, Joey enjoys his duties as a certified meat inspector and farm supervisor, and envisions holding a permanent position. In charge of the Municipal Agricultural Integrated Demo Farm of Amlan, where a 30-sow-level multiplier farm is located, Joey takes on big responsibilities in managing the overall operations of the facility. From production planning to managing waste on the farm, Joey ensures that the multiplier farm's operations start accordingly. Stocks (35 gilts and 1 teaser boar), 4 and 5 months old, were sourced from a trusted breeder farm. Joey has also begun implementing proper record-keeping while waiting for the animals to be bred. "Yung pinaka-na-appreciate ko talaga sa course is yung farm administration kasi hindi naman yun naituturo sa school" , he narrated. Farm administration is generally about the use of records and making valuable analysis from it to improve the herd performance over a certain period of time. Sow cards were prepared in advance while waiting for the breeders to be served with artificial insemination. As a farm supervisor, he also trained the animal keeper to maintain the pig farm. “Zero know-how kasi yung kasama ko sa farm, kaya kailangan talaga na maturuan sa pagbababuyan” , he shared. Joey also highlighted his adoption of dry cleaning, in which manure is collected, dried for a week, and is converted into inorganic fertilizer. Fertilizers are then used for vegetable production at the integrated demo farm. While overseeing the establishment of the multiplier farm until it became operational, Joey helped improve biosecurity practices across the 4 communities in Amlan. Two-day lectures on swine management and farm biosecurity were held for three consecutive years. Currently, 130 smallholder pig producers have been trained, and about 80% have been observed to change and improve their pig farm practices, resulting in increased productivity, lower mortality rates, and improved utilization of waste. Meanwhile, their small piggery has also shown major progress. Joey, together with his parents, maintains a 10-sow-level weaner operation. He maintains a work-life balance, helping communities and his parents’ livelihood prosper through proper management and guidance. At a young age, Joey is determined to uphold his sworn duty as a public servant and is dedicated to continuously shaping the lives of his fellow farmers. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“It has always been our family’s passion, so we pursued livestock production. My husband and I are both agriculturists by profession”. Ms. Mercy Andres Biala was an OFW for 14 years. When they had saved enough, they started with cattle and pig production in Isabela. In spite being an agriculture major graduate, she admitted that she had little knowledge about raising pigs. In 2020, their 16-sow level farm was affected by ASF. Because raising pigs had become too risky and costly to restart, they decided to pursue a different livelihood. “Sinubukan muna naming mag-rabbit” , Ms. Mercy said. But her passion for pig raising remains. As part of the Recovery and Repopulation Program/Livelihood Assistance for ASF-affected swine raisers 2022, the Provincial Government of Isabela provided them with two gilts to help them start again. However, it was still a challenging period because the pig market was unstable. To reduce costs, they decided to slaughter the pigs and sell the meat within our neighborhood. “Hindi kami sumukong mag-asawa, ipinagpatuloy na ulit naming ang pag-aalaga ng baboy” , she added. A turning point came in 2023 when ATI-RTC 2 granted the INSPIRE to CAVASFA. At first, some members doubted it because it was a large-scale project. Fortunately, in the same year, pork prices began to improve. Because of her strong enthusiasm for pig raising, Ms. Mercy eagerly attended pig husbandry training. She wanted to change her perspective and move away from traditional practices. “Narinig ko na ang mga training sa ITCPH. Akala ko napakamahal ng training at po-problemahin ko pa ang tulugan at pagkain ko roon.” Ms. Mercy proudly shared that she completed two trainings at the ITCPH, Course on Pig Husbandry in 2024 and Pork to Fork: Multiplying Business Opportunities for INSPIRE Beneficiaries in 2025. She applied all the lessons she learned, including proper biosecurity measures and the segregation of dry and wet manure, which she now uses as soil media. Nothing goes to waste, not even the pig manure. “Ang sabi nga ng evaluator, parang wala namang baboy dito, Unlike before, kahit malayo ka pa lang, alam mo ng may baboy” , Ms. Mercy shared. One of her key advocacies is supporting fellow livestock raisers by giving them a stronger voice to advocate for fair farm-gate prices. Ensuring fair pricing not only protects farmers’ income but also helps stabilize the local pork supply chain and promotes sustainable pig farming. "Malaki ang naitulong ng naging training ko sa ITCPH. What I started as basic knowledge has now become more systematic. The training transformed not just my skills but also my mindset- I now raise pigs with better planning, proper management and greater confidence. Hindi lang pala pakain at paligo ang dapat malaman, kaya thankful ako kase natutunan ko ang sustainable and scientific way of raising pigs." Ms. Mercy Andres Biala’s story is a powerful testament to the fact that true farming success requires more than just hard work—it demands a willingness to evolve. By pairing her enduring passion with modern, scientific practices learned at ITCPH, she didn't just rebuild her farm from the ashes of ASF; she elevated it into a sustainable, community-centered enterprise. Today, her journey from traditional methods to systematic management serves as an inspiring blueprint for local livestock raisers. It proves that when farmers embrace continuous learning and advocate for one another, they can turn severe adversity into a cleaner, smarter, and highly resilient future for agriculture. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

We’ve heard a lot of stories where officemates turn to lovers, right? But who would have thought that your love to pig farming could bring you the love of your life? And yes! This happened in one of our trainings here, or maybe, some stories remain untold. Dr. Jessica N. Rosete is a veterinary doctor. She earned her profession from the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) in Nueva Ecija. She grew up inspired by his father’s dream of becoming a veterinarian. Although her father was unable to fulfill that dream, her father’s passion and frustration became an inspiration to pursue veterinary medicine. Known to family and friends as “Doc Jhet”, she followed that dream with passion and dedication. She first joined the Provincial Veterinary Office of Nueva Vizcaya as a job-order employee for a year. As the eldest sibling carrying significant responsibilities, she later transferred to Nueva Vizcaya State University and served as an emergency instructor for three semesters. Eventually, she returned to the Provincial Veterinary Office, with her appointment as Veterinarian I. In 2019, she received an invitation from ATI-ITCPH for the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry. Her supervisor encouraged her to undergo training in pig production. Without hesitations, she accepted the opportunity. She also recalled what ATI RTC II once told her “if you want an intensive training in swine, you must go to ITCPH”. “Noong first day, parang bumalik ako sa first day ko sa college, jam-packed ang schedule…Hindi ka talaga titigilan ng mga resource persons hangga’t hindi mo naiintindihan ang itinuturo nila, napaka-tiyaga nila sa pagtuturo.” Right after the training, she implemented her re-entry plan with the title “Novo Vizcayano Pig-Yang Kaalaman, Baboyology Ating pig-Aralan,” Basic Training Course on Pig Husbandry in Nueva Vizcaya. She conducted several trainings attended by more than a hundred participants. She also emphasized how valuable the #ITCPHLearningByDoing approach in her work. "Lahat ng learnings ko, naibabahagi ko through trainings and even consultation." Over the years, Doc Jhet continued to enhance her expertise by participating in several ITCPH training programs, including the National Trainers' Course on Pig Farming as an Enterprise (2020), Ethnoveterinary Medicine: A Viable Alternative to Livestock and Poultry Therapeutics (2022), Training on On-Farm and Area Wide Disease Risk Management (2023), Training of Trainers: Epidemiology, Risk Analysis, ASF Prevention and Other Swine Hemorrhagic Diseases (2025), and the Refresher Course (2025). "Maganda ang mga trainings sa ITCPH. Updated lahat. Kung gusto mo ng updates tungkol sa swine industry, pumunta ka sa ITCPH. Even the instructional materials are very good, and nagagamit ko siya hanggang ngayon" , Doc Jhet shared. Interestingly, Doc Jhet also believes that destiny played a role during her training days at ATI-ITCPH. It was through attending the course, National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry, that she met her husband, Dr. Jade Rosete (Doc Soy), who was her co-trainee. In 2020, Doc Jhet transferred to the Provincial Veterinary Office of Surigao del Norte as Agricultural Center Chief I, and in 2024 to the Bureau of Animal Industry Veterinary Quarantine Services -CARAGA. Currently, she is holding the position of Veterinarian III and is designated as the Veterinary Quarantine Officer of Siargao Ports. She strongly believes that the knowledge, skills, and confidence she gained from ITCPH trainings greatly contributed to achieving this milestone in her career. Ultimately, Dr. Jessica Rosete’s journey proves that dedication to one's craft has a beautiful way of aligning both professional destiny and matters of the heart. Meeting "Doc Soy" amidst the rigorous, shared hustle of an ITCPH training course beautifully shows that when you follow your true professional calling with passion, life has a way of rewarding you with a partner who speaks the exact same language, turning a lifelong commitment to the livestock industry into the ultimate foundation for a lifelong love story. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

"Huwag Matakot! They have to build their confidence in swine production. They don’t have to be afraid of the African Swine Fever because, as of now, it is more or less controlled. Babalik [sila] sa swine production so that everybody can contribute to pork sufficiency." -Dr. William Medrano, Chairman, CAVASFA The Cagayan Valley Swine Farmers Association (CAVASFA), based in Echague, Isabela, is a Department of Agriculture-accredited organization dedicated to modernizing the regional livestock industry and uplifting the livelihoods of local swine raisers. Led by Ms. Myrna Cañete, President, Dr. William Medrano, Chairman, and Dr. Jeanette Rnii Genove, Farm Manager, the association serves as a vital link between small-scale farmers and government resources, focusing on swine repopulation and implementing advanced biosecurity measures amid industry challenges, including ASF. Through strategic partnerships with the ATI-International Training Center on Pig Husbandry, CAVASFA operates a 10-million INSPIRE project, a 30- Sow Level Swine Multiplier, and a Techno-Demo Farm. This complements Component 2 of the INSPIRE Program, which is the establishment of Swine Multiplier and Techno-Demo Farms that aim to build, restore, and recover the breeder base to support the gradual restocking and repopulation of the swine industry. The Department of Agriculture launched the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion Program (INSPIRE) to implement calibrated repopulation and enhancement of the local swine industry to recover the sector’s capacity to locally produce sufficient supplies of hogs and pork. "The project was conceptualized at the onset of the ASF that practically wiped out the swine population in Luzon. The INSPIRE project was designed to address the challenge in swine production. CAVASFA is one of the project's recipients. As the chairman of the Board, it is a steering role to develop policies and guidelines to help CAVASFA members prosper in their swine farming activities." - Dr. William Medrano, Chairman, CAVASFA One of its primary goals is to contribute to improving the genetic makeup of swine in Isable through the production and distribution of weaners. As of February 2026, the project had completed 741 of the 646 target weaner production and distribution. Given the number of animals supplied to the local market, the 115% success rate covers the full investment cost of the Department of Agriculture-National Livestock Program. "Karamihan sa mga miyembro ng CAVASFA ay hog raisers. Naging malaking tulong po ang INSPIRE Project na ito sa mga myembro para makapagsimula ulit, makabangon ulit, makapag-produce ulit ng magagandang lahi at maayos ang swine farm management." -Dr. Jeanette Rnii Genove, Farm Manager The project components include extension support, training services, and policy advocacy. It aims to benefit government livestock technicians and extensionists, agricultural teachers of state colleges and universities, farmer leaders of agri-based people’s organizations, small- and medium-scale pig farmers, and others. “Kahit ako, isang beterinaryo na, masasabi ko na marami akong natutunan sa ITCPH. Ang mga natutunan ko sa Course on Pig Husbandry, inia-apply ko talaga dito sa farm, especially ang biosecurity. Ganoon din sa Pork to Fork: Multiplying Business Opportunities, marami ang dapat i-improve in terms of business management practices. Sa Internet of Pigs (IOP) naman, mahalaga ito para maging competitive kasi dito mo matututunan ang mga latest innovations and technologies, na kailangan na nating gamitin para ma-digitalize ang farm practices. Ang mga training na na-attendan ko ay effective at naiaaply na agad natin dito sa loob." - Dr. Jeanette Rnii Genove, Farm Manager The project also rendered its commitment to provide extension services. They conducted a region-wide training on swine, attended by farmer members from of Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Batanes and Nueva Viscaya provinces. This training echoed the #LearningByDoing practices they gained from ATI-ITCPH, including technical knowledge and best practices. Dr. Genove adopts the Farm Business Advisory Service, a specialized consultancy approach that transforms traditional farming into a profitable, sustainable business. It focuses on providing farmers with the analytical tools and strategic guidance needed to make informed decisions about their operations. Likewise, they introduced farmer-to-farmer advisory services, a chat group where members in their respective provinces communicate to address issues & concerns, and to share information, photos, and videos of their best practices. "We are very eager na makapag-produce ng magaganda at quality piglets as a multiplier breeder farm. Kahit maraming challenges, focus lang po tayo sa ating direction, and I know magiging successful tayo dito." - Dr. Jeanette Rnii Genove, Farm Manager Building on its current success, the Cagayan Valley Swine Farmers Association (CAVASFA) stands as a beacon of resilience, having exceeded its weaner production targets, reaching 115% of its goal as of February 2026. By integrating the specialized Farm Business Advisory Service and leveraging the Internet of Pigs, the association is successfully transforming traditional farming into a competitive, sustainable enterprise. Through the 30-Sow Level Swine Multiplier farm, CAVASFA continues to empower its members across five provinces with the technical knowledge and biosecurity confidence needed to restore the region’s swine industry. As the association focuses on its direction as a premier multiplier breeder farm, it remains a critical partner to the government, ensuring that farmers can confidently contribute to national pork sufficiency and long-term food security.  #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

"Sa pag-aalaga ng baboy, marami ang mga pagsubok na dumadating. Ipagpatuloy pa din po natin kasi pana-pahanon lang naman. Sa pagta-tyaga, sipag. Basta magtiwala tayo sa kaalaman na natututunan natin sa ITCPH, malalampasan natin iyan." - Rizza Panganiban, Operations Manager, Malalim Multipurpose Cooperative The Malalim Multipurpose Cooperative (Malalim MPC) in Malalim, Batangas City, is a medium-scale farmer cooperative. It is a key player in the local agricultural community, known for supporting small-scale farmers and livestock raisers. It has been in operation for over 30 years, having been first registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) on February 27, 1990. It is a key player in the local agricultural community, known for supporting small-scale farmers and livestock raisers. The cooperative is now consists of 700 members. The cooperative provides a wide range of financial and agricultural services, including lending, agricultural support, and livelihood projects. In 2022, Malalim MPC started a 300 Finisher Production, Community-based swine farm. This is part of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) commitment to rebooting the swine industry through the National Livestock Program (NLP) and ATI-ITCPH. This 5-million-peso project includes the establishment of farm buildings, a farm office, feed storage, a biosecurity area, a waste management facility, and the provision of farm equipment. The project aims to revolutionize the local meat market by adopting modern, bio-secured facilities that ensure superior product quality. It functions as a hub for agricultural excellence, offering training for students and farmers alike. By producing a reliable supply of quality meat for government livelihood initiatives, the project simultaneously supports nationwide food programs and provides our members with a robust source of food and income. “Ang layunin ng Malalim MPC ay maging katuwang ng gobyerno sa pagpo-produce ng fresh meat sa community.” Over its three-year farm operation, the Malalim MPC produced a total of 1,176 fatteners, meeting the 1,164 target. Given the number of animals supplied to the local market, the 101% success rate covers the full investment cost of the Department of Agriculture-National Livestock Program. Likewise, operating as a premier techno-demo farm, the project has successfully integrated advanced climate-controlled infrastructure and rigorous biosecurity protocols. In doing so, it has established itself as a vital hub for agricultural excellence, providing a specialized venue for the training, extension, and professional development of local farmers. "Sa ngayon ay may na-establish na ang samahan na building para sa mga inahin at biik. Ito ay makakatulong para hindi na din kami bibili ng biik sa labas." Malalim MPC continues to scale its impact by adopting the latest-generation farming technologies and enhancing its physical facilities. The cooperative’s strategy focuses on empowering its members through specialized training while maintaining a zero-compromise approach to biosecurity protocols. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Noong pandemic, na-inlove ako sa cooperative kasi ang ganda-ganda, very transparent, autonomous, at tinatangkilik ang agriculture” – Riza. Rizalina P. Fortes, a wife and mother of three, began her humble career in pig farming through a series of unintentional incidents. Capable of starting a pig business, Riza and his husband set out to build a 300-finisher capacity farm in Taysan, Batangas, as a possible source of additional income. Ironic as it may seem, the farm did not materialize. “Never namin nalagyan ng baboy yung building” , Riza adds. Several piglets are sometimes placed as payment for the services rendered by his Attorneyhusband. “Minsan bayad piglets from Bulacan, pero hindi nagsu-survive, nagkakandamatay" , she narrates. Hopeful to turn the pig business into a successful venture, Riza, also shared a good amount of investment with a local feed supplier, even getting a spot as a member of the audit committee. From this, she took off to a higher stage. During the pandemic, she had the luxury of time to attend seminars. This was an eye-opener for Riza, and a turning point at the same time. “Doon ko nalaman na andami palang government grants for pig raisers” , she shares. Eyeing the 5-million INSPIRE Program Project, Riza sought help in Barangay Piña, Taysan, Batangas. However, farmer organizations in the area were no longer functional. “Mahirap kasi talaga doon sa amin, walang pang sustain ang farmers, sa feeds, even sa pambayad sa artificial insemination” , says Riza. “Bakit hindi na lang ikaw ang gumawa ng kooperatiba, kasi wala pa nito sa atin?” , the Barangay Chairman responds. Determined to be a recipient of the INSPIRE Program Project – a government-led initiative to rebuild the swine industry from the devastating effects of African swine fever by supporting LGUs, cooperatives, and pig producers with biosecure facilities, modern technology, training, and capital for hog repopulation, Riza founded the Piña Taysan Agriculture Cooperative (PITAC) in 2022. While working to strengthen the cooperative’s core values and functions, she also participated in training at the ATI-ITCPH. Two years later, PITAC finally received a 10-million project (300-finisher building) under the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office CALABARZON. During the construction of the building, Riza was at the ITCPH attending her 5th and 6th courses, the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry, and the National Trainer’s Course on Animal Waste Management and Utilization. “Ito yung time na kino-construct yung INSPIRE sa amin, very timely kasi nababantayan ko according to standard” , Riza happily shares. Riza serves as the General Manager of PITAC. From merely 18 pig farmers, the cooperative grew to 121 members, with half as pig producers and the other half as investors. Their (personal) empty pig pens are also transformed into a functional space for PITAC members. Currently, it houses 10 sows, 40 piglets, and 150 finishers. “Yung hindi namin nagagamit dati na mga kulungan, doon naglalagay ng baboy yung ibang members ng PITAC” , Riza adds. Knowing the challenges faced by fellow pig raisers, Riza, ensures that the smallholders earn a profitable business. In partnership with a local feed supplier, GM Riza safeguards the feed capital through a loan once the hog market has concluded. “Unang goal ng PITAC is to supply feeds as pautang sa pig farmers” , she explains. Now that feeds have been secured, new challenges have cropped up, such as the market for finishers. As a solution, PITAC buys the marketable hogs. To avoid further losses, haulers were welcomed to join the cooperative as members. Pigs classified as slow growers are processed into tapa, tocino, and longganisa. Through value-adding, patronage, and refund schemes, members enjoy benefits. From zero-knowledge in pig farming, Riza embraced the beauty of swine. Knowledge gained from the training is being disseminated through a Pre-membership education seminar (PMES) for interested individuals to join the cooperative. Members also practice ethnoveterinary medicine, using locally available plants to prevent disease and some as topical ointments for open wounds. Working with the community has had a significant impact not only on Riza but also on the smallholder pig raisers in Taysan. “Pag may tulungan, lumalago ang negosyo” , she stressed. Today, Riza enjoys the company of fellow pig raisers while seeing the progress she has made in their lives. #ITCPHway #LearningByDoing