itcph

Riza “Makamasa” Unfolding the Glamour of Community Development

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:21:48 GMT

“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

Beyond the Target: How Tilambo MPC Set the Gold Standard for Community-Based Swine Farming

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:07:29 GMT

"Sa kasalukuyan po mayroon na kaming 1,194 na produkto ng INSPIRE Project. May karagdagan pa po na 42 heads na ilalabas ngayong December. Kung susumahin po ay nasa 1,236 which is 106% na ng accomplishment ng Tilambo Multipurpose Cooperative."

- Gregorio U. Culla Jr., General Manager, Tilambo Multipurpose Cooperative

The Tilambo Multipurpose Cooperative (Tilambo MPC) in Taysan, Batangas, is a farmer group that offers various services to its members, including savings and deposits, lending, rental and catering services, a fuel refilling station, a water distribution system, and agricultural services. Established in 1997, the cooperative is now consists of 1798 members. In 2022, Tilambo 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 produce and promote good quality meat in the market, adopt modern facilities with climate-controlled systems and biosecurity, provide a venue for training, extension and learning of farmers, students, and interested individuals, support the DA and other government agencies’ swine-based livelihood programs by producing adequate and quality meat to supply these program’s needs, and provide an additional source of food and income to the farmer members.

"Ang INSPIRE project po ay tumulong sa pagsu-suply ng pork meat sa merkado, dahil yun po ang isa sa mga layunin bilang isang swine multiplier farm. Iyun pong naha-howl na mga fatteners, yun po ang sinusuply sa merkado."

- Gregorio U. Culla Jr.

Three years after its inauguration, the Tilambo MPC produced a total of 1236 fatteners. It exceeds the 1,164 target. Given the value of animals supplied to the local market, the 106% success rate covers the full investment cost of the Department of Agriculture-National Livestock Program. Likewise, as a techno-demo farm, the project has successfully operated a modern facility with climate-controlled systems and biosecurity and provided a venue for training, extension, and learning for farmers.

"Dito sa aming kooperatiba, halos lahat ng myembro ay nag-aalaga ng baboy. Marami ang naitulong ng proyektong ito. Unanguna, yung sa kinita namin, nakabahagi ang mga kasapi, nakapagpapa-iwi na din kami sa mga kasapi kapag sumosobra ang biik. Nakaka-attend kami ng mga pagsasanay, at natututunan ang tamang sistema ng pagaalaga ng baboy. Ilan lamang ito sa mga naitutulong ng proyekto sa pamamagitan ng ITCPH."

- Mr. Crispin U. Berana, Chairman of the Board, Tilambo MPC

Tilambo MPC still plans to strengthen its operations through the adaptation of the latest technology in pig farming, enhanced facilities, continuous capability building, and strict implementation of biosecurity practices.

"Sa mga kooperatiba na gusto pong mag-venture sa pagbababuyan, kayo po ay makipag-ugnayan sa mga LGU at ahensya ng DA, tulad ng ITCPH, para sa maayus at epektibong mga proyekto. Kahit na may

alam na kayo sa pag-aalaga, sa tulong ng ITCPH, magkakaroon kayo ng magandang training, at mabibigyan ng tamang kaalaman sa pamamahala ng babuyan."

– Mr. Gregorio U. Culla Jr.

In a nutshell, the Tilambo Multi-Purpose Cooperative (Tilambo MPC) has proven its leadership in agriculture by exceeding the Php 5 million target of the DA-INSPIRE Project, achieving 106% and supplying 1,236 fatteners to the local market.

Beyond production success, this initiative established a modern technodemo farm featuring climate-controlled and bio-secured facilities, directly benefiting its 1798 members through profit-sharing, livestock livelihood programs (paiwi), and continuous training in proper hog raising systems.

"To promote resiliency, the cooperative will continue collaborating with ATI-ITCPH and related government agencies to gain access to superior training and technical skills, fostering a sustainable approach to their purpose."

– Mr. Gregorio U. Culla Jr.

Moving forward, Tilambo MPC remains committed to using the latest technology and implementing strict biosecurity measures, ensuring its mission to supply safe and nutritious pork and to strengthen its community's livelihood.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

LABS so Sweet: Promoting the Aromatic LABS Concoction

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 03:58:34 GMT

"Kapag mabango at matamis-tamis ang amoy ng Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) serum, lalo na sa natural na pagbuburo (fermentation) tulad ng sa Korean Natural Farming, ay tumutukoy sa mga senyales ng matagumpay na proseso ng paggawa at wastong pag-iimbak nito."

Mr. Guillermo “Gil” Z. De Castro is one of the owners of Gil Integrated Farm and Training School, Inc., located in Rizal, Majayjay, Laguna. The farm is a DA ATI- Learning Site for Agriculture and a TESDA-accredited Farm School. In 2024, he completed the course Sustainable Pig Farming – Lactic Acid Bacteria Serum (SPF-LABS). Attending this course provided him with benefits, including a solid scientific foundation combined with practical operational skills.

In his previous career, Gil served as a manager in an international bank. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to manage his family-owned farm and training school.

"Noon, sabi ng parents ko, ang hawakan daw namin ay papel at ballpen, kasi mahirap sa agriculture, nauulanan ka, naiinitan ka… Kinailangan ko na bumalik sa agriculture kasi isa ito sa mga sustainable businesses noong pandemic… kaya ako bumalik kasi gusto ko tumulong sa community namin na mapataas ulit ang pagpo-produce ng baboy."

Since his training school offers learners essential skills in Agro- Entrepreneurship, he must continually equip himself. He wanted to gain expertise in this field and sought out agencies that provide training. And so, he learned about ITCPH through its social media sites.

"Nakita ko po sa Facebook ang ITCPH. Tiningnan ko po ang mga schedule ng training. Nakita ko din po ang mga success stories, nabasa ko po ang kanilang progress…nag-umpisa sila ng walang kaalaman sa pagbabuyan, at dahil po sa ITCPH nagkaroon sila ng maraming kaalaman."

Through the training, Gil gained a comprehensive understanding of the microbiology of LAB serum, learning how specific strains promote gut health, strengthen the immune system, and effectively inhibit harmful pathogens. While the usual smell of properly prepared Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) serum is distinctly sour, acidic, or yogurt-like, he develops a more desirable sweet smell in the serum, which also indicates a successful fermentation by all the beneficial microorganisms present.

"Ang “tamis" na binabanggit ay kadalasang tumutukoy sa (sweet and sour smell), at hindi sa aktwal na lasa na matamis dahil sa molasses o asukal . Ang ganitong amoy ay indikasyon ng malinis na fermentation, na nagpapahiwatig na ang mga mabubuting LAB ang nangingibabaw at walang masamang mikroorganismo (pathogens) ang dumami at sumira sa produkto. Ang hindi kanais-nais o mabahong amoy ay senyales ng pagkasira."

Another impact of the SPF-LABS training is its agro-entrepreneurial benefits. This is realized by enabling pig farmers to develop premium, niche markets for antibiotic-free and naturally raised pork. This approach helps diversify their income sources and boost brand differentiation. LABS opens new business avenues through value-added and waste-to- resource models, allowing farmers, as well as young people, to sell excess LABS or high-quality organic compost made from their waste. Most importantly, its use enhances economic efficiency by significantly cutting veterinary costs and improving the Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), transforming pig farming from a commodity business into a more profitable, sustainable, and high-value entrepreneurial venture.

"...kung matututunan nila ang proseso ng concoctions, maari nila itong ibenta at siguradong kikita sila. Pwede din sila gumawa ng sarili nilang feed, ito ay ilan sa mga natutunan ko sa ITCPH. Ito po ay mabisang solusyon sa mahal na presyo ng feeds."

He also emphasizes the importance of transitioning from traditional methods to innovative practices in pig farming due to the urgent need to increase profitability, enhance biosecurity, and meet stringent market demands for welfare and sustainability. Traditional farming struggles with high operating costs, particularly for feed, and is highly vulnerable to devastating disease outbreaks.

"Wag tayo nasanay sa mga tradisyonal na pamamaraan, sa pagbabago ng mundo, kailangan mabilis tayo mag-adjust. Mayroon na po ng innovative pen design na itinuturo ang ITCPH. Kahit ang dumi ng baboy, pwede sya pagkakitaan."

Moreover, Gil advocates the importance of continuous learning. Farmers must dedicate time to pig farming training because ongoing education is essential for running a profitable and resilient modern operation. Training provides the specialized knowledge needed to adopt innovative practices.

"Huwag tayo agad-agad susuko. Hindi madali ang pagbababuyan, kailangan may passion ka. Kung mawaalan tayo ng mga babuyan o hindi tayo mag-aalaga ng baboy. Anu pong kakainin [pandagdag] ng mga mamamayan sa Pilipinas?"

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

LABS for the Love of Nature: A Sustainable Pig Farming Advocacy

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:39:42 GMT

"Kung mayroong kaalaman ang isa, matututo ka doon. Hindi lamang sa mga trainer, pati na din sa mga co-participants."

Mercedes P. Quimpol is the owner of St. Isid Integrated Farm, located in Barangay Balitoc, Famy, Laguna. Her farm is a Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) accredited by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). The farm focuses on integrated and diversified farming systems that promote sustainability and efficient resource use. It functions as a hands-on educational hub for local farmers, students, and community members to learn about sustainable farming practices.

Mercedes holds a TESDA National Certificate (NC II) in Organic Agriculture Production. It covers the entire process of organic production, from raising livestock to creating organic supplements. The program aims to promote safe, healthy, and sustainable farming practices.

To enhance her skills, she attended the Short Course on Sustainable Pig Farming - LABS Pigs on May 6-10, 2024. The training emphasizes sustainable methods and alternatives for pig production, aiming to help farmers mitigate the environmental impact of livestock farming. It also covers the production and use of LABS, a beneficial microorganism.

“Ito po [LABS] ay ipinapainom sa ating mga alagang baboy at ito ay probiotics. Hindi masyadong nagiging masasakitin ang ating mga alagang baboy.”

These principles and practices of LABS were applied in her farm, which is part of her Re-Entry Plan on establishing a sustainable pig farm. Her attendance at the Center’s training reinforced her basic knowledge in sustainable pig farming. Since then, she has started making concoctions and empowering farmers through training and various extension activities. She facilitates training on environmentally friendly procedures for creating and using this concoction. She highlights the importance of LABS training, noting its effectiveness as an antibiotic and deodorizer, its ability to boost a pig's immune system, and its aid in waste management.

As a smallhold farm owner, she now operates a farrow-to-finish production. It is a type of swine production system where a farm

manages the entire lifecycle of a pig, from breeding and gestation to farrowing, weaning, and finishing them to market weight.

“Kung tayo po mismo ay marunong mag-alaga, hindi na kakailanganin na umangkat pa. Ang aming pong natutunang kaalaman sa ITCPH, ito po ay ibinabahagi namin sa aming mga kasamahan.”

Mercedes continues to encourage her colleagues and people in her community to join the Center’s training series. She highlights the importance of collective learning, where they gather information from various sources, including experience, observation, and acquired knowledge, not only from trainers but also from co-trainees.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

From Native to Nailing It, The Transforming Story of a Pig Hobbyist

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:51:54 GMT

“For five years nagrent kami ng 1000 sqm na lupa, meron kaming anim na native na inahin that time, until nag build na talaga kami ng tunay na farm year 2022”.

MJM Farm is a smallhold farm located in Sitio Paraig Lambak, Brgy. Tumalin, Nasugbu, Batangas, owned by the young, fun, and adventurous Camille Mae R. Quijano. The farm name – MJM, came from the initials of her name Mae, husband James, and son Miguel.

Camille’s humble beginnings even started during her Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) days as a professional teacher in Thailand. She began attending seminars on native pig raising, which led her to adopt a native pig from a close friend during her stay in the Philippines. Successful in renting farm land, Camille did not realize that she had become very much acquainted with her six native sows.

A few years had passed when she and her husband finally decided to build a pig farm. The next years brought tons of learning for Camille. She attended several courses at the ATI-ITCPH, and managed to upgrade her love for pig farming.

“Nung may farm na kasi kami, zero knowledge naman talaga ako sa commercial pigs, so yung available ko na fatteners, yun yung ginawa ko na mga inahin” , Camille narrated.

With seven finishers on her farm, three were marketed as slaughtered pigs, while the remaining four heads were used as breeders. Using breeder animals is crucial in any livestock production for better outcomes like increased production, faster growth rate, and high litter index. Finishers lack desirable traits for herd productivity. One out of the four finishers was unproductive, and later on was sold as a market animal.

The fun and learning continue at MJM Farm. “At that time, wala rin akong farrowing pen, kasi isang klaseng kulungan lang naman yung meron ako, so yung mga piglets naiipit sila”, she happily reminisced.

From the challenges in breeding, Camille then faced problems with housing. With her growing number of pigs, existing pens seemed to be an underlying factor in getting a high rate of mortality.

“After ko umattend ng Swine Artificial Insemination Course sa ITCPH, year 2023, that was the time that I invested in F1 gilts (quality breeders), and improving our pig housing facility” , Camille added.

Today, Camille maintains a 10-sow level farm, with a 2.25 farrowing index, and an average of 11 piglets born alive. Able to overcome the challenges of being a newbie in the industry, Camille continues to have fun growing the business. Commercial pigs are free-ranged for an ample amount of time, given that the weather conditions are fine.

She practices manual feeding, dry cleaning, and pen netting as vector control. From having the usual four-corned pens for every sow, she proudly invested in gestating pens, farrowing pens, nursery pens, and finisher pens.

Aside from keeping her small business in good shape, Camille also ventured into paiwi system. Two households within her community are provided with growers, and during the market, 50-50 profit is received by both the owner and seller.

"Ang laking tulong ng mga natutunan ko sa ITCPH kasi dito sa lugar namin, marami ang na-ASF, and dati natawag pa ako ng technician, ngayon ako na lahat ang gumagawa pati paginject and process ng piglet" , says Camille.

More than the joy of providing quality trainings and seeing big smiles during closing ceremonies, the Center is even happier and looks forward to witnessing these kinds of stories.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

BraveHeart: A Bounce Back Success Story Against ASF

Fri, 09 May 2025 07:32:52 GMT

"Dito sa lugar namin sa Candelaria [Quezon], ubos lahat. Ito nga huling farm na tinamaan. Nag-umpisa sa mga fattener, araw-araw may mga namamatay. Nag-lock down na dito. Wala nang kumukuha ng baboy."

This is a story of an OFW swine business owner who faced the devastating impact of the African Swine Fever. As most people know, the disease has caused significant financial losses, emotional distress, and disruptions to livelihoods.

Mr. Jaime Alimagno is an Electronics and Communication Engineer by profession and works in the oil and gas industries in various countries in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Amid his project-based contracts, he thought that investing in the swine business, or pig farming, could be a profitable venture due to the high demand for pork and relatively quick return on investment.

"Nagsearch lang ako ng mga training centers [online], kasi gusto ko matuto sa pagbaboy. Nakita ko ang ITCPH, kaya nag-register ako."

Mr. Alimagno attended the Course on Swine Artificial Insemination (2024).

With zero knowledge in pig husbandry, he juggled his time to be able to attend a training at ATI-ITCPH. But the training came a bit late. In August 2024, the ASF outbreak hits the Quezon Province, striking Candelaria Quezon as an infected zone, where his farm is located. He experienced a significant financial loss of approximately 1.6 million pesos.

"Sa ITCPH ko natututan ang Biosecurity kaya minadali ko i-establish sa farm ko, kasi hindi ko alam eh."

Through ATI-ITCPH, he established a basic biosecurity facility in his swine farm. He focused on controlling access, implemented sanitation and hygiene practices, and ensured proper waste management. This involves creating physical barriers such as a fence, shower & disinfection area, and establishing protocols for personnel, vehicles, and equipment entering and exiting the farm. This led to a major restructuring of his farm. He realized how important biosecurity is, which can significantly impact animal health, farm productivity, and economic viability.

"Sa ngayon, may labindalawa na akong inahin, at dito ko inumpisahan ulit. Mahalaga talaga ang biosecurity kasi kung hindi mo ito aaralin at ipapatupad, sobrang laki ang mawawala sayo."

To strengthen his knowledge, he attended the “In Cycles – Course on Animal Waste Management and Utilization for Smallhold Farmers” in 2025, and is now a hopeful applicant for the Course on Pig Husbandry.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Louie Gene Gadayan: The Man Behind BAHOG, A Hog Raisers Group in Balanac, Laguna

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:46:34 GMT

“Sana through Pig Farming, maka-utay-utay,maiahon natin ang mga kabarangay na tutukan na lang nila ang pagbababoy, kasi may kita naman sila”

Mr. Louie Gene Gadayan is the owner of El Caniss Farm, located at Barangay Balanac, Magdalena, Laguna. He was an active member of the 4-H Club. This is an international youth organization focused on developing Head, Heart, Hands, and Health through various educational programs and projects, particularly in rural areas. In the Philippines, the 4-H Club is supported by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and works with both in-school and out-of-school youth.

Aside from being an active youth advocate, he serves as a Barangay Councilor in Balanac and the chairman of Agriculture.

"Napasok ako as Barangay Councilor at hinawakan ko ang kumite ng agriculture, isa itong paraan upang maisagawa ko ang aking re-entry plan. At ito na din ang pagkakataon ko na makapagbahagi ng aking kaalaman para sa mga taga-Balanac."

His Re-Entry plan focused on the implementation of best pig farming practices through the Paiwi system. This aids in the repopulation of swine in Balanac and the nearby community. He has been doing the Paiwi system since 2017. Through attending the Practical Course for Senior Stockperson in 2019, he was able to learn the most advanced practices and unlearn the traditional and non-standard way of pig farming.

He also noticed a pressing environmental issue in his community. Quarries employ a significant number of people. The availability of building materials from quarries supports the needs of people in his community.

"Ang kabuhayan ng tao dito ay quarrying. Ako ay nalulungkot talaga dahil syempre ang kalikasan ay nasisira. Wala naman tayong magagawa kasi kabuhayan iyan ng mga tao. Through pig farming, maka-utayutay, maiahon natin ang mga kabarangay na tutukan na lang nila ang pagbababoy, kasi may kita naman sila. Sa ganoong paraang, mababawasan ang mga nagtatrabaho sa quarry."

He is aware of the negative impacts of quarrying. It includes the destruction of natural habitats & landscapes, noise & dust pollutio, increased traffic, the loss of biodiversity, and disruption of ecosystems. He had this realization that if he were able to introduce sustainable practices as a source of revenue to the people, then they could have alternative income streams while minimizing environmental impact.

"Nag-organize ako ng grupo ng hog raisers, pinangalanan kong BAHOG, Balanac Hog Raisers Group. A group consisting of 20 members, that started in 2024."

He made partnerships with feed companies in the area to capacitate members in basic pig farming and implementation of biosecurity practices.

"Ang baboy sa Balanac ay titilaok na, dahil ang pakain sa kanila ay pangmanok. Kinausap ko sila, ipinaliwanag ko na dapat may susundin tayo ng sistema."

The training also highlighted the proper feeding practices. Through this initiative, a local feed store was established. Pig farmers have learned that knowing the best feeds for pigs is crucial for their health, growth, and overall productivity.

"So ngayon hindi na titilaok ang mga baboy nila, kasi tamang feeds na ang ginagamit. Natututo na sila ng tama."

As a member of the Sangguniang Barangay, Gene Louie Gadayan continues sharing the #ITCPHBestPractices by providing advisory services through consultations and on-farm demonstrations. As an alumnus of the Course on Swine AI in 2019, he serves as the AI technician for smallhold farmers in Balanac and nearby barangays.

“Sa pinakasimpleng salita ay lahat ng gusto ninyong matutunan [sa pagbababuyan], ay sa ITCPH ninyo matatagpuan. Ako ay patunay talaga na makakatulong ang ITCPH sa aming mga magbababoy. Naipakita ko din sa kanila ang resulta ng aking natutunan.”

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Bigla Kang Sumakses, sa AI Business

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 06:28:28 GMT

“Before ako mag-train sa ITCPH, hindi ako humahawak ng biik, nang nalaman ko ang tamang pamamaraang ng paghawak, pagturok, pagpapakain, pagkakapon, pagkukuha ng semilya, halos lahat ako na ang gumagawa.”

Ms. Mary Grace H. Jamero is one of the owners of Florentino Agriculture Farm, a family-owned farm located at Simata, Molave, Zamboanga Del Sur. She finished the Course on Pig Husbandry on May 20-31, 2024, and the Course on Swine Artificial Insemination on June 3-7, 2024.

As a co-owner, Ms. Jamero initially served as the liaison officer, in charge of finding the appropriate stocks, feed, and other supplies for their family-owned pig farm. ITCPH was introduced to her by her brother, who asked her to attend training on pig husbandry. By attending this course, she acquired the ITCPH Learning-by-Doing practice.

“Nakita ko ung mga high-tech na equipment na maaari ko ng magamit agad, upang mapadali ang proseso ng pangangalaga ng baboy tulad ng insemination, backfat testing, ultrasound, at iba pa. Lahat ito ay aking natutunan.”

These experiences empowered her to facilitate hands-on practices inside her farm, including piglet processing, feeding, iron injecting techniques, and even food supplement practices (Madre de Agua). She even learned the proper biosecurity protocols and applied them immediately to their farm.

Excited to learn more, she attended the Course on Swine Artificial Insemination, June 3-7, 2024.

“Before ako nag-attend ng training sa AI, mayroon na kaming plans, but we need more knowledge. Though, may mga resources na kami, iba pa din kasi kapag alam mo yung tamang input.”

After the training, she put up the proper pen positioning, such as the boar and collecting pen. She purchased the basic equipment for an AI laboratory including extenders, a microscope, cylinders, and biorefrigerators. All these things happened in three months after the training in ITCPH.

In September 2024, they started selling extended semen. As an unpopular practice in their area, they saw this as an opportunity to introduce a better practice in pig production. As a promotional strategy, they offer free doses of semen to the customers until two reheats. Little by little, clients are appreciating the importance of swine AI. The Florentino Agriculture Farm is now supplying other farm owners in the area, serving approximately 50 farms in Zamboanga Del Sur, and nearby provinces such as Misamis Occidental and Cagayan de Oro with shipping options (bus-to-bus pick-up arrangement).

“Marami nang nagtatanong ng process kung paano makakapasok sa ITCPH, kung magkano ang magagastos? Kinekwento ko ung mga natututunan ko. Hindi naman kasi tayo dapat makampante sa mga nakasanayan na natin, kasi from time-to-time, nag-iiba ang pangangalaga natin ng mga hayop.”

Having this in mind she still wants to learn more about pig farming. This year, she will be attending a training in ITCPH, focusing on farm waste management, the course In Cycles: Waste Management and Utilization for Smallhold Farmers.

The Florentino Agriculture Farm plays a vital role in the pig farming industry. Swine AI Business has been known to help farmers in various areas such as genetic improvement, operational efficiency, biosecurity, and economic benefits. This initiative leads to a more efficient and sustainable pork production system.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Lumaki po ako sa Farm”, an Element of Success for Frank

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Influenced by his father, Mr. Gerard Franklin Belazon, a young farmer from Alabat Quezon, learned the basic practices and routine of pig farming.

“Lumaki po ako sa farm, ako ang pinag-aalaga ng baboy ng aking tatay. Dapat napakain at nalinis ko na muna ang kulungan bago ako manood ng telebisyon”.

Frank is a qualified applicant for the Government Internship Program (GIP) at LGU-Alabat. It aims to provide young workers the opportunity to demonstrate their talents and skills in the field of public service with the ultimate objective of attracting the best and the brightest who want to pursue a career in government service, particularly in the fields and disciplines related to labor and employment. Generally, the program aims to provide opportunities to engage young workers to serve the general public in government agencies/ entities projects and programs at the national and local level.

As an Agriculture student, he gained knowledge about ITCPH through his professor. “Kapag gusto mo ng magandang training sa baboy, sa ITCPH ka pupunta” , his professor said.

Soon enough, Mr. Belazon worked as an Agricultural Technician in the Municipal Agriculture Office, Alabat Quezon. In 2022, he was sent to attend the National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry, a flagship training program of ITCPH.

“Malaki ang naitulong nito sa aking sarili, dati may mga nagko-consult saken tungkol sa pag-aalaga ng baboy, hindi ko alam kung paano ko sila sasagutin o tutulungan… Sobra-sobra ang mga natutunan kong kaalaman pagdating sa pag-aalaga ng baboy”

This training has provided him with skills and abilities that boosted his confidence in assisting pig farmers in his community.

“Pagkatapos ng training ko sa ITCPH, nagkaroon na ng focus sa trabaho, nakakatulong na din ako sa mga proposal ng ginagawa ng aming opisina pagdating livestock”.

As a Livestock Inspector, he led the Biosecurity Seminar in all barangays in Alabat. This took him a month to accomplish. From being the Agriculture Technician, to Agricultural Technologist, he now works as the Officer-In-Charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office.

ITCPH had a significant impact on his career. His gained expertise helped him perform better in his current role, revealed his leadership potential, and demonstrated his commitment to growth. His improved performance and alignment with the organization’s vision and mission needs led to his promotion.

“Tuwing babalik ako ng ITCPH, laging may bagong facilities at may bago sa training, hindi tumitigil ang ITCPH kung paano pa mapapaganda ang pagpapatakbo nito. Makikita mo talaga ung mga rekomendasyon ng mga participants na iniaaply talaga ng ITCPH. Napaka-open sa feedback ng ITCPH.”

Beyond his success, Frank lives with the commitment to motivate staff to work to their full potential and serve the community in the most efficient ways.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

What’s Up Bro? Ready for Business?

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Bryan Ong, a 41-year-old farmer and entrepreneur from Oriental Mindoro, who started Bro Farm in Barangay Narra.

Bro Farm is a breeder farm that produces F1 and purebred animals. The genetic pool of these animals is critical in producing quality grandparent stocks and finishers. Whether his clients are into finisher production or farrow-to-finish production, superior breeds are necessary in helping smallhold farms reach its full potential.

With advance thinking, purpose driven, and goal-oriented attitude of Ong, his investment of being an overseas filipino worker (OFW) heavily poured into farming.

Retiring from being an OFW takes a proactive approach. Regardless of education and wealth, building a big-picture context is necessary to start anew and learning something different.

Decided to shift into farming, his first investment in poultry production was a success. At the time he put an end in working abroad, his integrated farm was in stable position. Enjoying the fruit of his well-earned money, Ong was desperate to expand his business. Geared towards acquiring more knowledge in agriculture and livestock, participation to various exhibits became a hobby. Joining an expo at the World Trade Center in 2016 opened more opportunities for this newbie. “I was shocked to see different breeds of pigs and it was really my first time to know that there are different classes of pigs” , he shared.

Business trade shows or expos serves as an avenue to explore new products, meet potential suppliers, and exchange ideas among other farmers. Eventually the expo built his interest in pig production.

Knowing nothing about raising pigs, attending the expo was a perfect guide. Aside from gaining the basics of housing and growing hogs, Ong was a risk taker to anchor his name as a known breeder farm. Initially, eight grandparent stocks (6 sows and 2 boars) were purchased.

Considering the cost of investment, acquisition of breeder animals is 50-70% higher than the amount spent on purchasing low bred animals. In return, income generated is expected to be higher.

Since 2019, Ong became a full-time farm owner and farmer. While on the peak of building the name of Bro Farm, he also managed to undergo formal trainings at the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry. To name a few are the Course on Swine Artificial Insemination, and Course on Pig Husbandry.

“The return of investment (ROI) was only a year”, Ong said. As a result of his diligence and consistency in the quality of processed boar semen he markets, the business grew years after. At present, Bro Farm has a total of 13 breeders (LW/LD - F1 and purebred), and a 30-sow level production.

Upon careful planning on how to utilize resources, Ong fulfilled his ideal business. Just like any other businessmen, it is important to know one’s strengths and weaknesses, be aware of the market trends, and more importantly be knowledgeable and skilled in the industry before venturing into any kind of business.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

I Vlog You! Channeling the ITCPH #LearningByDoing Practices in the Digital World

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

“90% ng kaalaman ko, natutunan ko sa ITCPH”.

Ms. Carmela Buan Escoto is the owner of Carmela Swine Farm in Candelaria Quezon. Influenced by a family of pig raisers, she revived the swine farm business by establishing a 2-Sow Level farm in 2012. As a farm owner, she merely relied on animal technicians for knowledge. She learned about the Center through social media. She decided to attend an ITCPH training course with so many questions in mind.

In 2014, she joined the Basic Course on Pig Husbandry. “Dahil sa ITCPH natutunan ko ang tamang pangangalaga. Katulad na lang sa breeding system, dati akala ko na kapag mestizo, hybrid na, un na yon. Nasundan ko nang maayus ‘yong breeding system ng F1, F2. Pati sa health, kasi sa backyard, kapag namatay, stroke na, un na un, wala nang root cause” .

Immediately after the training, Ms. Escoto applied the importance of the breeding system and health management and highlighted the relevance of housing.

“Housing design, natutunan ko talaga. Noon magulo sir, basta kung saan may space dun ko ilalagay. Ngayon naisaayos ko na from farrowing pens, to weaners, and to finisher pen.”

She returned to ITCPH training because the principles and practices in pig farming are dynamic. Pig farming keeps improving and enhancing, so she needed to adapt to innovations, technology, and development. In 2023, she attended the Course on Pig Husbandry, Course on Sustainable Pig Farming- LABS, Training on Animal Waste Management and Utilization for Manila Bay Cleanup, and the Course on Swine Artificial Insemination in 2024.

Her passion for pig farming continues to live in the light of the ASF. ITCPH taught her standard biosecurity practices.

“Noon, walang sistema, natutunan ko sa ITCPH ang tamang biosecurity practices. Natutunan ko ung tamang flow and structure ng biosecurity. Mula noon hindi na din ako nagpapasok ng mga buyer”.

The ITCPH training enhanced her swine artificial insemination abilities. She learned about its vital role in reproductive success, improving herd genetics, ensuring animal welfare, and ultimately contributing to the sustainability and profitability of swine production.

“May AI Center naman ako dati, pero nong pumasok ako ng ITCPH, ang dami kong nai-correct. Lalo na sa temperature, handling, etc. lahat ng proseso ko naging bago… Dati akala ko, basta maraming semilyang buhay, okay na. Hala noong pumunta ako sa ITCPH, marami pa palang akong dapat isa-alang-alang… Noong nagtipon-tipon kami ng mga nag-e-AI mula sa iba’t-ibang lugar, ako pa ang pinakamura. Ang akin ay 250 pesos lang.”

Following the Center’s mission to provide practical training and information dissemination on pig technology, she applied the Farm Business Advisory Services and Knowledge Products development.

“Dahil sa Agri-Vet, natutunan kong ibahagi ang aking mga natututunan mula sa ITCPH. Tuwing pupunta ako sa ITCPH, humihingi ako ng maraming IECs. Bawat nakakausap ko, binibigyan ko talaga, at sinisigurado ko naman na wala itong bayad.”

Vlogging is also her way of disseminating information about pig husbandry. During the ASF outbreak, she dedicated her time to creating video tutorials on various aspects of pig farming.

“Bago ako magpost ng Vlog, babalikan ko pa lahat ng mga modules ko. Baka mamaya may mali akong maituro, yari ako sa ITCPH”.

The Center greatly recognizes her courage and initiative to share what she learned from ITCPH in a wider range, specifically through social media. She commits to pursue to create vlogs.

“Kailangan nakapag-hawak ka muna ng baboy, upang mas matutunan mo ang wastong pamamaraan sa pagbabuyan”.

Ms. Escoto reminds people that if they want to learn about pig farming, it is essential to expose themselves to pigs. They should learn about pig behaviors, what kind of environment suits them, and how to manage pigs & administer farms. When they attend training, they must apply it immediately. With so much information she shares with her clients & the people in the community, she always reminds them to capacitate themselves with proper training, and of course, from credible experts.

“Kaya palagi ko sinasabi, sa ITCPH po talaga muna tayo mag aral.”

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

We Move Mountains | Bringing the Upland School Community to ATI-ITCPH

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT

“Akala nila kapag agriculture ay magtatanim lamang… Ang layunin natin ay ma-encourage ang mga bata to engage themselves to agriculture”.

This is a success story about engaging the youths/students and the school community in various aspects of pig farming. Mr. Richard Joyosa is the Teacher-in-Charge for the Kabulusan Integrated National High School- Saray Extension (KINHS). For this Academic Year, 2024-2025, the school serves 40 learners from Grades 7 to 12. It is located in the upland community of Sitio Maliliit-na-Bato, Brgy. Saray, Pakil, Laguna.

“Nakita ko po ang ITCPH sa Facebook. As government employee, ang pinaghahandaan natin ay ang retirement, at ang pagbababuyan ang aking nasa isip. Pangalawa, habang ako ay nasa serbisyo ay [nais kong] maibigay ko ang mga kaalaman sa pagbababuyan sa mga studyante na may interest sa Agriculture.”

Incorrect waste management and community issues are the main reasons why Mr. Joyosa engaged in pig farming. His parents-in-law had limited knowledge of pig waste management, which raised concerns from the community and caused them to cease operations.

“Na-challenge ako dahil ang kanilang pamamaraan ay traditional. Kung makaattend ako ng training, maa-acquire ko ang modern technology in handling and management ng pagbababuyan.”

Mr. Joyosa completed eight training courses at the Center. These include the Basic Course on Pig Husbandry, the National Trainers Course on Swine Artificial Insemination, the National Trainers Course on Basic Meat Processing, Meat Processing: Utilizing Local and Natural Methods of Preservation, Training on Feed Formulation, and the ITCPH Refresher Course.

“When I attended NTCPH, nakita ko ung kagalingan ng AI.”

Five of his students joined the Center’s farm immersion program. This is an ITCPH program for Senior High School students that offers the opportunity to get exposed to farm routines, practices, and procedures.

“Nakapasok po kami sa farm, nakita namin ang tamang proseso ng artificial insemination” - Ruby Rebillion, a KINHS student.

“Itinuro po sa amin kung paano ang pagsusumpit” , added Cyrel Consulta, a KINHS student.

He also introduced ITCPH to the people in the Saray community. Parents learned about the Center’s thrusts & services and inspired them to attend training, such as swine artificial insemination, animal waste management, organic agriculture programs, and internship programs.

“Isa sa mga napa-attend ko, si Aldwin J. Dayo, iyon ngayon ang ginagawa nya. May babuyan na saya at malaki na ang potential ng kanyang AI. Dati, lolo nya ang kilala dito, sya na ang technician dito. Mas lumakas ang loob nya because of the training na inattenan sa ITCPH.”

Because of its geographic location, Mr. Joyosa envisions establishing a Rural Farm School under the Department of Education. Through this, the KINHS-Saray Campus shall offer a parallel learning system and an alternative delivery mode of secondary education. It provides for facilitative and experiential learning on the core subjects of secondary education curriculum with a focus on agriculture, designed to address the needs of children in rural and agricultural communities.

“Akala nila kapag agriculture ay magtatanim lamang. Kung tayo ay magkakaroon ng tamang pamamaraan, facilities, at equipment, makikita nila na maganda pala talaga ang agriculture.

This will encourage students to acquire basic knowledge of pig farming. This includes farm management, biosecurity practices, and proper handling of pigs. Such advocacy will never be realized without the assistance of ATI-ITCPH.

“Pwede bang sabihin ko na lang na ang ITCPH ay Center of Excellence? Masasabi mo kasi talaga na kumpleto na ang quality ng training at masasabi mong hindi hilaw ang iyong kaalaman, nandoon ang totoong training. Because of the training, lumalakas ang loob natin.”

Mr. Joyosa is forever grateful to the Center and is committed to continuously educating people in his community about the vision and values of ATI-ITCPH, the only specialized training center on pigs in Asia and the Pacific, known for its practical training that enhances not only knowledge, more so, the skills on improved swine management.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

A Successful BioSMART Pigkabuhayan Project: A Pocket of Support For Backyard Farmers Against ASF

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

As part of the responses to the ASF outbreak in the country, the ATIITCPH conceptualized a project that supports the Bantay ASF sa Barangay Program. This is the BioSMART (BioSecured Moneymaking and Replicable Technology-driven) Pigkabuhayan Project. Launched in 2022, the project safeguarded pig farms from infectious diseases by strict biosecurity protocols. This project covers the provision of a shower area, a perimeter fence, and enclosed pathways, thus increasing the food security and profitability of a pig enterprise.

Completing the requirements, the Partnership and Networking Services (PNS) awarded the project to Mr. Raul Q. De Castro, a small-scale farm owner from Barangay Sto. Toribio, Lipa City, Batangas. Mr. De Castro is an active member of the Padre Garcia Development Cooperative. With a total of Php 162,000.00, the project covered the capital investment.

"Nakaligtas po tayo sa ASF, dahil ngkaroon po tayo ng biosecurity, napakalaking tulong po" says Mr. De Castro.

The Project was intended to capacitate pig raisers through training and on-farm consultations. It transforms farm operations from resource driven to technology-driven production.

Since 2022, Mr. De Castro has been able to market finishers sustainably. As a model unit for a biosecured technology-driven backyard farm, the farm also serves as the Center’s external partner for swine farm benchmarking activities. Among the guests who visited his farm are the French government delegates, students from the Batangas State University Lobo Campus, and other pig raisers in the community.

"Malaki ang naitulong ng ITCPH, mula sa pangangalaga at pagpapagawa ng shower room hanggang sa padaanan ng ating baboy" Mr. De Castro added.

Furthermore, it was able to improve the farm’s competitiveness in the market and its profitability, provide continuous technical assistance and advisory on swine production and other related aspects, and ensure compatibility of the swine production with environmental conservation. The project provided support in ensuring farm biosecurity while enhancing profitability through the promotion of smart and digital technologies in swine production.

As such, these Center-based initiatives support and educate farmers about the best swine biosecurity practices, allowing them to maximize farm productivity, ensure animal health, and minimize mortality & medication costs. This project continues as the Center looks for beneficiaries.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Advancing in Agriculture, A Choice?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The primary sources of learning are found in books, schools, and experiences. In terms of education, there are multiple levels of acquiring knowledge. For some, education is an investment. Others are privileged to receive special forms of education like trainings as part of their employment.

How do people step higher in their chosen fields? It could be self learning, experimenting, grabbing scholarships, learning from other’s experiences, or acquiring formal instruction.

A certain field further branches to numerous areas of specialization. The Agricultural Training Institute – International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ATI-ITCPH) located in Lipa City, Batangas for example specializes in pig production. It offers inter-related disciplines that direct trainees in all angles of growing pigs, from the scientific way of thinking up to the sustainable way of doing things.

Aside from being a training center, the ATI-ITCPH is also a Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Accredited Training and Assessment Center. Partnering with TESDA steps-up the game in increasing the potential of students to master a career as a trainer, assessor, or work in the international scene as a producer.

Why is there a need to advance in agriculture? For agricultural extension workers, additional know-how is the key in maintaining a good relationship with clients making them credible for promotion. Farmers on the other hand are always hungry for knowledge to keep their production high.

One of the ITCPH alumni, Ms. Maria Lisa Fe Olaivar Tria, 54, from Pagbilao Quezon specializes in fishery. She has worked with various government agencies as a community organizer and teacher. After spending more than two decades of teaching technology and livelihood education to high school students, she crossed path of learning swine production. “I have zero knowledge in swine, poultry, and ruminants”, she shared.

Her employment to TESDA QNAS made her pursue swine, and eventually aspired for more. Participating to a 2-month training at ATI-ITCPH supplemented Lisa with the updates in pig production. Equipping herself with the necessary knowledge and skills in pig farming, she was able to become an Instructor I, AC Manager, and NC II Assessor in Animal Production (Swine).

"As an educator, there is a need to arm yourself with knowledge." she added. The Center is proud to see Lisa shine in the field of swine. Once a trainee, now a trainer and assessor.

In the world of agriculture, mastering a subject is crucial. The ATI as the capacity builder of farmers is equipped with resources and instructional tools in upgrading the farmer’s way of living. TESDA on the other hand offers NCs to individuals who are competent in a particular area of field through a comprehensive assessment process.

Training centers, schools, and other institutions intended for instruction may consider strengthening its array of specialization through partnering with TESDA.

In an article published by TESDA, it emphasized that NC II and Dual Training System (DTS) play an important role in addressing job-skills mismatch. Studies have shown that DTS and other TVET modalities that promote industry partnerships result in high employment rates.

Lisa is only one of the ITCPH graduates who serves the role of a TVET trainer and assessor in the Philippines.

Would you dare to undergo an NC II Assessment?

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

The Beauty of Momentum, Investing in Swine

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT

“I am not failing, yet my business is not growing” , says Fatima, a young smallhold pork producer in Tigaon, Camarines Sur.

Filipinos are naturally capable of entering into different types of businesses. Adapting to trends seems to be an easy move for most. However, risking a big amount of finance to implement change is a bold decision to make. Consider half a million of investment in a small pig production. For others, this amount would mean renovation of an existing home, a new tiny house, another business, or probably enjoying life by exploring new places through travel.

In the Philippine context, a bigger percentage (70%) of pork producers in the swine sector come from the smallhold. Since much of the production of meat are produced in small scale, the government provides opportunities in improving the industry.

The question is, are the smallhold ready and capable to adapt?

Ms. Fatima Peñaflor, 47, a wife and a mother of three paved the way of expanding her pig business by adapting to change. From merely a 5 sow level farm in 2017, she now enjoys the fruit of her labor in maintaining a 30 sow-level farm.

Several factors contribute to a successful pig production. These indicators perhaps need financial means and in return provide a better outlook in the long run. If some are focused on purchasing the most affordable or the most expensive feeds to raise quality pigs, then most probably, much are still needed to be learnt. Feeds and breeds are not the only areas of concern in farming. Pens for example are basically the shelter of pigs. Housing and temperature are important considerations too in securing the safety, welfare, and health of animals. Therefore, it helps in the attainment of a high farm performance.

Right after receiving a training at the Agricultural Training Institute – International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ATI-ITCPH), there was an immediate action from Fatima to improve her pig housing facilities. To sum up her investment in pig farming, around PhP 450,000 as of 2024 was spent in the improvement of her farm operations. Every time she profits from selling animals, she keeps a portion of money in investing proper facilities, equipment, and tools.

Among Fatima’s interventions to grow her business were shifting to elevated farrowing and nursery pens, the construction of finisher pens, procurement of quality breeders, application of swine artificial insemination, administration of vitamins and vaccines, conversion of pig manure to fertilizer, and practice of biosecurity measures.

The moment that Fatima knew that there is a better approach in generating profit from growing pigs, time was not put into waste. If farmers like Fatima have the urge to react immediately to their newly gained know-how, improvements may be more evident in pig farming communities in a shorter period of time. Since Fatima lack proper knowledge and skills in pig farming when she started, it took her five years to generate consistent profit.

After improving the farm’s infrastructure and equipment, animals were also upgraded. High quality breeders known as Grand Parent (GP) stocks were purchased to supply breeder animals (F1) to fellow hog raisers. From merely the production of hogs ready for slaughter, Fatima was able to sell 3-month old F1 animals.

Not only did Fatima’s investment in swine benefitted her family, but helped pig farming communities to prosper by upgrading their animals. Today, Fatima was able to encourage 15 farmers from her neighborhood in enhancing the genetics of hogs. Through this, increase in production is met. Likewise, one of her clients was able to run an artificial insemination center upon purchasing quality boar (male pig) from her produce.

The extent of investing in swine was life-changing for Fatima. Her drive from experiencing losses in pig production proved that proper management in a pig farm results to a better business. Though pigs are considered a fragile business due to recuring animal diseases, investment in resources is essential. After all, there is a continuous quest on climate resilience and vaccine development to avoid dreadful diseases.

Wise investment is necessary if only one understands the economic value of money against running a business.

Once settled, the production keeps getting better and better. Unknowingly, years have passed, standards are met, business starts to flourish, and members of the community try to imitate how it was done.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Soaring High in Pig Production and Artificial Insemination | The Richard So Story

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 01:10:04 GMT

How does one evolve to be a good businessman?

Today, most general public dreams of having their businesses flourish quickly. Without proper planning and analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, many tend to take off abruptly and face financial losses.

Richard So known as Ricardo King, is a half-Chinese living on the island of Oriental Mindoro. Belonging to a family of businessmen, Ricardo did experience the corporate world before residing permanently in Mindoro. Through time he was able to be part of various communities including the Chinese communities, and fire volunteer groups among others.

A few years later, he entered a community of farmers. In 2014, brown eggs were quite popular in the market. Unexpectedly, through the use of good friends, he ventured into this business. Since farming was a smooth sailing experience for Ricardo, he also thought of exploring the lechon business. With the aid of available seminars and lecture videos on YouTube, he delved into native pig production, three years later.

But it’s not all about black pigs. White pigs offer a bigger opportunity in terms of expansion and making a profitable business.

During the CoViD-19 and outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country, Ricardo was offered to maintain a GP Landrace. Completely different from native pig production, he decided to study pig production and grow a pig farm.

Among the courses he took at the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ITCPH) are the Short Course on Sustainable Pig Farming (May 8-12, 2023), In Cycles: Waste Management and Utilization (October 9-13, 2023), Course on Swine Artificial Insemination (June 5-9, 2023), and Course on Pig Husbandry (March 4-15, 2024), from 2023 to 2024.

Geared towards pig farming, in mid-2023, he started to renovate an old pig housing facility owned by his in-laws. The said building was then divided into farrowing units, nursery pens, finisher pens, and replacement pens.

With the knowledge and skills he gained at the Center and support from his network of farmers, Ricardo was able to transform the dilapidated building into a functional one. Currently, he manages a 20-sow level, farrow to finish production. Equipped with the scientific know-how in raising pigs, Ricardo also successfully maintained a partnership with a breeder farm to meet the demand of breeders in the municipalities of Gloria and Calapan.

Early this year (2024), Ricardo started to market F1 gilts to various pork producers. From informal trainings in his early years of pig farming, Ricardo was able to shift into formal trainings that led him to be a successful businessman in swine.

Understanding biosecurity directed Ricardo to minimize and avoid risks in pig production. In the last quarter of 2023, Mindoro was infected with ASF. With appropriate biosecurity measures in place, Ricardo’s pig farm in Sitio Nalbot, Dulungan Dos, Baco Oriental Mindoro was saved.

“Somehow, we were able to replicate what ITCPH has been doing” , he shared. Some of the biosecurity protocols being implemented include stay-in staff, netting, footbath, disinfection, wearing of farm clothing, shower-in, shower-out, and downtime.

Since many are unaware of the basic things to consider in preventing the entry of diseases, Ricardo together with his other friends, initiated a seminar on biosecurity. This was attended by more than fifty (50) smallholders from Gloria and Baco.

Early this year, Ricardo successfully implemented his re-entry plan on establishing a Swine Artificial Insemination Facility. Currently, he has GP Landrace and one terminal boar. In August 2024, GP Large White and GP White Duroc are expected to arrive.

The AI Center caters to more than 50 farmers in Calapan, Baco, Naujan, and Victoria, with 70% sales as to the total production of processed boar semen. A total of 12 doses are produced per 200 – 250 ml of ejaculated boar semen. “Sa una mahirap magpasampa ng barako, at mag process ng semilya, pero nakayanan” , he stated.

Ricardo began to explore pig production as a backup plan to tending free-range chickens. Apparently, with available resources and patience to study how to grow white pigs, pig farming added to Ricardo’s source of living, and fun.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Helping the Community through the Establishment of a Farmers’ Cooperative

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 06:54:36 GMT

“College pa lang ako sikat na ang ITCPH sa College of Agriculture ng Western Philippine University [Aborlan, Palawan].”

Jeffrey del Rosario works as an Agricultural Technologist in the Local Government Unit-Narra, Palawan. This 37-year-old man has been working devotedly in the LGU for nine years. His duties include certificate issuance for animal shipment & slaughter, animal blood collection, animal health care services, and other related technical services.

To be trained in the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry, Lipa City Batangas has always been his dream. “Pangarap ko ang makapag-training sa ITCPH, halos lahat ng nakakapag-train sa ITCPH ay nagiging eksperto pagdating sa industriya ng pagbababuyan. Nakilalala ko sa mga seminar na nasalihan ko sina Mr. Ariel Colongan at Mr. Gomer Decano noong 2008 na kilalang alumni ng ITCPH na nagpapayo sa akin magsanay din sa inyong tanggapan, at 2022 nabigyan ng katuparan ng ITCPH ang isa sa aking mga pangarap”.

Surprisingly, Mr. del Rosario was invited to participate in the National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry (NTCPH), April 18 to June 17, 2022. The icing on the cake is that ITCPH will shoulder the round-trip ticket. “Pinayagan na ako ng aming opisina na pumunta ng ITCPH, sa wakas makakapag-train na ako” , he enthusiastically said.

During the NTCPH training, Mr. Del Rosario noticed that his co-participants are highly engaged with farmers’ cooperatives or associations. Inspired by this, he took the courage to establish a cooperative, through the assistance of the pig raisers in LGU-Narra, Palawan. It led to the birth of the Kaagapay Livestock Agriculture Cooperative. In 2023, this farmers’ cooperative was registered, with the help of Mr. Lynil Torres, a NTCPH batchmate.

Starting with 17 members, the Kaagapay Livestock Agriculture Cooperative has 109 active members, and of course, Mr. del Rosario serves as one of the Board of Directors. Currently, the Kaagapay Livestock Agriculture Cooperative is dispatching pigs to Iloilo and helping to establish a good farm gate live weight price. This cooperative envisions becoming a voice that unites the hog raisers in Narra, Palawan, and other municipalities of Palawan.

Guided by the ATI-ITCPH principle of “Learning by Doing” , he is being called to serve as a resource person on various aspects of pig raising. It includes breeding, biosecurity, and other swine-raising concerns to government agencies and universities.

“Napakaganda ng training sa ITCPH, sa lahat ng napuntahan kong Training Center ito ung pinaka-nagustuhan ko kase ung principle nila “Learning by Doing”. Natututo ka habang ginagawa mo ang isang bagay. Grabe ang pressure sa ITCPH, palalabasin nila lahat ng klase ng kaba mo pero pagkatapos naman ng lahat ng iyon ay aalis ka ng ITCPH na malaki ang confidence sa sarili pagdating sa kaalaman sa pagbababuyan at taas noo mong ipagmamalaki na ITCPH alumni na ako”.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

No Time to Give Up, Get Up and Learn the ITCPH Way

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

“Halos walang nabubuhay sa mga biik, sa ika-tatlong araw ay pa-isa isa na itong namamatay. Magsasara na kami ng farm, kase walang nangyayaring maganda sa mga alaga namin.”

Mr. Reynaldo D. Mangosong is a sixty-four (64) year-old pig enthusiast. He used to work for 33 years as an OFW until his family decided to venture into a 5-sow-level farm. Due to a lack of formal training in pig production, he follows whatever advice is given to him by animal technicians, which also happens to other small-hold raisers in the area.

Learning about the ATI-ITCPH through vloggers and content creators in swine, he registered in one of the Center’s training programs. “Nilakasan ko na ang loob, kase paano ko malalaman kung hindi ko susubukan… Medyo may kamahalan ang training fee, pero kailangang subukan upang mas makatulong sa aming pamilya lalo na sa farm” , Mr. Mangosong said.

Until then, he joined the Course on Pig Husbandry from August 21 up to September 1, 2023. He was eager to learn that he wrote about the experiences and problems encountered on his farm, which he addressed during the training.

Soon after the training, Mr. Mangosong immediately enhanced the farm biosecurity protocols and handled the route administration & piglet processing. His conduct of farrowing & weaning was also a success.

“Ang walong-libong training fee ay napaka-sulit na, pero dapat ito ay iyong isasa-isip at aaraling mabuti ang sistema ng pagbababuyan. Sa ibang Training Center mas mahal pa tapos nakaupo ka lang, pero dito sa ITCPH, after ng discussion sa loob ng classroom ay pupunta naman sa farm upang gawin ang practical”.

Mr. Mangosong emphasized what ATI-ITCPH Center Director, Dr. Ruth S. Miclat-Sonaco said, “Not everyone will believe in you, so take all the right learning you acquire and apply them to your farm”.

Bringing home all the learning, the farm survived and never compromised again. Moreso, it is now being developed through an expansion, a result of his Re-Entry Plan. As a product of the ATI-ITCPH Learning By Doing principle, Mr. Mangosong continuously encourages his community and former co-workers to be trained in the #ITCPHWay.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

From Zero to Hero | A Mission to Capacitate Farmers

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

“Zero knowledge ako sa pag-aalaga, lalo na sa mga hybrids, mga puti. Kasi wala talaga idea niyan… Nung umattend-attend ako ng mga training na yan [ATI-ITCPH], masasabi ko na ngayon na medyo maalam na, marunong na.”

Starting with 16 members, Mr. Lynil Torres is one of the pioneer members of the Silang Livestock Agriculture Cooperative (SLAC), Silang Cavite. Consisting of 45 members, he currently serves as the chairman of the SLAC. Thirty (30) of them are Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBA) members.

Mr. Torres learned about ATI-ITCPH through its webinar series. With minimal knowledge of pig husbandry, he participated in one webinar event in 2022, which is the “Bakit nga ba Native?”. With so much eagerness to learn various aspects of pig husbandry, especially in producing commercial hogs, he attended numerous face-to-face trainings in ATI-ITCPH. These include Pork to Pork Multiplying Business Opportunities (2022), National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry (2022), National Trainers’ Course on Swine Artificial Insemination (2022), National Trainers’ Course on Meat Processing (2022), Short Course ng Sustainable Pig Farming (2022), National Trainers’ Course ng Animal Waste Management and Utilization (2022), National Trainers’ Course Pig Farming as an Enterprise (2023), Course on Meat Processing Utilizing Local and Natural Methods and Preservation (2023), and Training on Trainers on Animal Feed Milling Technology for Smallhold Farmers (2023). Mr. Torres added that some of the members of SLAC are attending the Center’s training too.

SLAC is one of the beneficiaries of the DA-NLP INSPIRE Program, particularly the 30-Sow Level Multiplier & Techno-Demo Farm, and the Climate-Controlled Finisher Operation Facility. Mr. Torres took the opportunity to develop re-entry plans applicable to the multiplier and finisher operation farms. These re-entry plans are part of the ATI-ITCPH training requirement, following the Center’s learning-by-doing training principle, he greatly applied honed skills and learning.

“Ang purpose ko talaga nung pag-attend ng training, matuto muna at saka magbahagi naman. Lalo na sa mga member namin. Ako rin ang nakatoka na mag-training doon sa mga beneficiary namin.”

As a farmer-leader, Mr. Torres lives by the mission of capacity building, particularly to members of the community where he belongs. He offers hands-on demonstrations on various aspects of pig husbandry, a farrowto- finish approach. It includes sow management, feeding, insemination, and more.

“Itinuturo ko sa kanila actual. Sabi nga dito sa ITCPH, learning by doing. Kailangan talaga actual. Para natatandaaan ng mga member namin yung pagtuturo… Kumpleto po ang ITCPH, lalo na yung trainers’ course na yan.”

Mr. Torres regards the Center’s follow-through initiatives. He admires how its technical staff extended their support throughout the project.

“Yong stock projection, yung totoo niyan, si Mam Amy [tumulong]. Parang one-on-one kami noon, doon mismo sa ITCPH pumunta ako doon… Kasi mahirap siyang gawin sa totoo lang.”

Guided by the Center’s thrusts in capacity enhancement, Mr. Torres is grateful that he serves the ITCPHway; that is, assisting farmers towards the improvement of the methods of swine production and marketing. It becomes an integral part of achieving a balanced social and economic development, particularly in rural areas.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Masipag si Magsino”, Planning the Future with Agriculture

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The everyday life of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) seems to be a dream come true for many. But, do you want to know what the truth is? The dream for every Filipino is to enjoy the perks of their hard-earned money in the Philippines while experiencing the small and big occasions in the family.

“Nasa Dubai pa lang ako, nagpapa-alaga na ako ng baboy.” says Dennis.

Mr. Dennis C. Magsino, a pig producer in Gloria, Oriental Mindoro is determined to grow a pig farming business ever since. Way back in 2014, he entered into “paiwi” wherein the livestock owner entrusts his animals to a caretaker and sales are divided between them. Commonly, 20 heads of finishers are paiwi per cycle.

“Okay naman ang kita, kaya sabi ko ipursigi ko na kaya itong business.” he narrated.

After spending 11 years in Dubai, Dennis finally returned. During his time in managing the overall operations of a pig farm, he encountered big wins and losses.

In 2023, he took the chance of participating in the course offerings of the ATI-ITCPH, such as Sustainable Pig Farming; One-day Swine AI; and In Cycles: Animal Waste Management and Utilization for Small-hold in Lipa City, Batangas.

From merely the paiwi guy in town, Dennis adds on skills as he becomes one of the swine artificial insemination technicians in his community.

“Nagsisimula pa lang ako, pero meron na akong ilang clients” , he said. A fee of five hundred pesos is received for every successful AI he does. Aside from being an on-call AI technician, he also envisions upgrading his 8-sow level smallhold farm upon undergoing renovation this year.

The technologies on natural probiotics such as lactic acid bacteria serum (LABS) also paved the way for Dennis to fully acquire his source of income from agriculture and livestock.

“Naibebenta ko ang per litro ng LABS ng one-hundred fifty pesos” , he said. With the goal of lessening the production costs of medications and vitamins, Dennis was patient in championing the use of LABS.

“Nag try ako ng ibat-ibang klase ng gatas para makuha kung saan mas gaganda ang kalalabasan na LABS, tapos nag try ako sa aking vegetable farm, tapos nag-out na ako sa market” , Dennis narrated.

The use of LABS was found to be useful in growing plants and animals. Based on the feedback of chicken growers, with the application of LABS, there has been consistent egg production, healthy chicks and hens, no-odor farming, and zero visibility of flies around the poultry.

In terms of pig production, LABS serves as a natural growth enhancer to animals and are seen to be livelier. “Yung dati ko ring problema sa diarrhea, nasolusyunan din ng LABS” , Dennis added.

Proud of his achievements, Dennis is delighted to see other animal and vegetable producers maintain their production through sustainable farming. “Nasa 50 litters of LABS per month in an average ang nagagawa ko pansarili at pambenta” , he shares.

Aside from these technologies, Dennis also practices basic ethnoveterinary medicine in poultry and pig farming. Solid wastes collected from his smallhold farm are collected, dried, and used during land preparation. LABS is mixed with the soil and aids as an organic fertilizer to his vegetable garden.

Far from his usual routine as an OFW, Dennis enjoys his farming life from the benefits of engaging in agriculture and livestock.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Learning and Sharing: Tesorero’s Treasure

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Mr. Marianito “Nitoy” A. Tesorero is an extension worker who loves serving pig farmers and creating an impact on farmer’s lives. He is a graduate of BS Agriculture major in Animal Science and is currently taking PhD in Behavioral Management.

He started working in the Department of Agriculture –Regional Field Office V (DA-RFO V) as a Science Research Assistant and has been in the field for almost eight years. He now works as a Senior Science Research Specialist and Manager of Albay Breeding Station (Swine) and Central Bicol Experiment Station (Poultry).

He was sent to ITCPH for training. He attended the 22nd National Trainers Course on Pig Husbandry in 2016 and was elected as the President of the “Pigbooks” during his batch. He participated in seven (7) courses, some of which are the National Trainers Course on Swine Artificial Insemination, Training of Trainers on Animal Feed Milling Technology for Small-hold Farmers, and Feednovation: 3Ps of Feed Production and Processing to name a few.

Mr. Nitoy had a prior learning on pig husbandry before he went to ITCPH. However, in his training on Artificial Insemination, the Center enhanced his stored knowledge, especially on the practical side.

After his training, he gained more confidence in imparting his acquired knowledge and skills on pig production through lectures and technical assistance to the pig farmers. He is also consulted on the formulation of feeds. His promotion is partly attributed to being an alumnus of ITCPH.

Back in 2015, Ms. Tesico and Ms. Laqui did the monitoring of Bicol and he was asked if he wanted to attend the Centers’ training, “Opo, please gusto ko pong umattend ng mga trainings ng ITCPH” he eagerly replied. “Kami na rin mismo ang gumagawa ng paraan para makapagtraining kami pati na rin yung aming mga kasamahan, kami na yung tumatawag sa ITCPH para magpa-invite” , he added.

Before the ASF outbreak in 2019, he used to raise pigs, however, when ASF hit the Bicol Region, he ceased his production due to conflict with his task as part of the ASF task force of DA-RFO V.

His re-entry plan is to establish an AI Business Center with two (2) boars (Chester White and Landrace). DA-RFO V had an AI Business Center before, then he proposed a re-establishment. Mr. Tesorero hopes that they could start selling processed semen within the year.

Recordkeeping is one of the subjects that he appreciates. “Nung may nagko-consult na sa akin, naidentify ko kung aling animals ang maganda ang production at for culling na. Ang hirap pag mata mata ang pag-iisip ng records. Napakalaking tulong ng Records sa isang farm lalo pagdating sa feed consumption. Napaka-simple ng recordkeeping at napakalaking tulong sa mga nag-aalaga ng baboy.”

Armed with improved know-how learned from ITCPH, Mr. Tesorero has captured the confidence of the pig producers.

“Personal satisfaction ang makapag-share ng learnings sa mga nangangailangan. It is also an additional income through speakership, I bought my laptop and other equipment that can be used during talks. ”

“Bilang alumni, at may kasamahan kaming graduate ng Agriculture at nasa field ng swine, pinapayuhan na namin na mag-train sa ITCPH, para hindi lang kami ang may alam, mas maganda kung sa isang opisina ay marami ang may kaalaman pagdating sa babuyan. ”

ITCPH sets a very high standard when it comes to communication, training preparations, evaluations, resource persons, and other related concerns. “Thank you for keeping the bar high” , he said.

His major responsibility is swine dispersal with an annual target of 280 heads (white) and 60 heads (native). Part of this is to assess the recipients if they are capable of and can do the swine production.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Meet Mr. Rodireck Latonero, The Jack of All Trade in Swine Farming

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

A swine farmer, tricycle driver, and electrician; these are the skills of Mr. Rodireck Latonero to provide for his family.

Mr. Latonero is a native resident of Castilla, Sorsogon, and worked as an SK Chairman from 2007 to2010. He was also a member of the 4H Club of Burabod and a recipient of the Gawad Saka Award for the years 2009 and 2012. From 2010-2015, he served as Barangay Councilor and he was elected as the 4H Federation President for Municipal, Provincial, and Regional levels.

As a father who wants to give a better life to his family, Mr. Roderick left his political journey in 2013. He tried his luck abroad and pursued his chosen career in Saudi Arabia as a building electrician.

Two years later, he decided to go home. Being a member of 4H Club Burabod and a pig raiser, his coordinator asked him to go training in ITCPH to take the Practical Course on Pig Husbandry for Senior Stockpersons in 2017. Due to unforeseen activity, he did not make it to the training. However, the same year he took the National Trainer’s Course on Swine Artificial Insemination.

“Ang dahilan ay ang mahirap na malayo sa pamilya at mga kaibigan. Kaya nag-focus ako sa farming dahil sa ito ang aking kinasanayan nung bata pa ako, ang mag alaga ng baboy at mag tanim ng palay. Ang sabi ko kung kaya ko naman kitain ang kinikita ko sa abroad, bakit pa ako babalik sa ibang bansa. Medyo maliit lang ang kitaan sa babuyan kasi sa mahal ng pakain at nag babayad pa sa technician pati ang sa AI. Halos lahat babayaran kaya nag decide ako na mas matutunan ang mga basic na kailangan ng baboy hanggang sa paglaki. Nakapag training nga ako sa ITCPH ng pig husbandry at artificial insemination. Ito ang naging training ko na napakalaki ng naitulong sa aking buhay na hanggang ngayun ay nagagamit ko sa aking babuyan” , he recalls.

“Nag-umpisa ako sa dalawang biik, pinalaki ko hanggang maging fatteners pero gusto ko magkaroon ng sariling inahin kaya nung dumating na ung market day nila, ipinagbili ko tapos yung perang yun ang ibinili ng isang sow” , he added.

Prior to his training at ITCPH, he doesn’t know anything about artificial insemination and pigletprocessing. “Bumayad pako ng Php50.00 per head sa technician kapag may ika-castrate na piglet, sa injection nagbabayad ako ng Php 250-300 per litter.”

As Mr. Rodireck reveals, “Nung unang nanganak ang baboy ko, dun ako natulog sa tabi ng baboy ko, 8 ang naging anak pero dahil nga sa wala pa akong kaalaman, namatay lahat ng biik” .

Ms. Alice Jamoralin, 4H Provincial Coordinator, urged him to take training at ITCPH. With a limited knowledge about Lipa and its location, he still attended the National Trainers Course on Swine Artificial Insemination.

“Dito sa Bicol, may salyada (biglaang benta ng alagang baboy), kapag may emergency sales ng baboy ako na yung kumukuha. Malakas na ang loob kase may kaalaman na ako pagdating sa babuyan. Naalala ko pa, mayroong castration cart ang ITCPH, kaya nag-fabricate ako ng sarili kong cart na pwede kong gamitin kapag magka-castrate ako ng piglets.”

“At dahil sa marunong na akong mag-AI, ako na ang nag-AI sa aking mga alaga, sa halagang P150.00 at may kasama ng catheter. Ako na din ang nag-AI sa mga alagang baboy ng aking mga kapatid, na nanganganak ng 10 biik... Kung magkakaroon ako ng sapat na pondo, ipagsasakatuparan ko pa rin ang pangarap ko na magkaroon ng sariling AI Business Center.”

Mr. Latonero’s journey from being a tricycle driver, public servant, OFW, and a successful swine farmer shows how dynamic his journey has been. He still plans to attend training in the Center to enhance his skills and share them with his community.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Empowering Community through Learning by Doing: The Success Story of Sabang Ibaan Multi-Purpose Cooperative

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Sabang Ibaan Multi-Purpose Cooperative is a profitable organization established in the year 1993 with the help of the Municipal Agrarian Reform Office led by Mrs. Zenaida Cantos, and the coop beneficiaries of Barangay Sabang. The cooperative started with just 29 members, and they collected a total amount of Php 29,000.00 as their initial fund. At present, they have a total of 540 members and counting. The cooperative is one of the recipients of the Community Adoption Project.

The Community Adoption Project is one of the unique extension modalities implemented by the Center in 1997. The said project is composed of five components such as pig enterprise development; capability building; animal health services; post-production and marketmatching services; and “e-Community” establishment. In the year 2017, the cooperative became an official beneficiary of the CA Project through a Memorandum of Agreement ceremony. Through Dr. Editha Cabilitazan (former Training Center Superintendent I), the project was coordinated with Ms. Ethel Salazar (LGU Ibaan), to find a possible beneficiary of the Community Adoption Project. As such, the Sabang Ibaan was recommended to be one of the beneficiaries and to conduct training for the members of the cooperative.

In this project, ITCPH provides the adopted community with excellent training and technical assistance in the field of Pig Husbandry and other related disciplines. They also provide Free-Range Chicken Modules, technical assistance, and support to the e-Community, and they give 8 Sows as part of this project.

"Napakalaking tulong po sa amin, lalo na po sa aming kooperatiba nitong Comm- Adopt Project. Nabigyan po kami ng sapat na kaalaman, ng training, sa aming mga miyembro, at sa lahat po ng aming empleyado tungkol po sa pagbababuyan/ paghahayupan" , says Ms. Nelia Castillo, General Manager, SIMPC.

During the implementation of the CA Project, they were able to produce 230 heads of piglets. Through this farrow-to-finish sow production became a great source of income for the members of the cooperative. To date, they were able to produce and give eight (8) sows to its members, particularly those who were affected by the ASF and they planned to give more to help their members who want to start their business in Pig Husbandry.

“Nawalan po sila ng mga alagang baboy dahil nga po pwersahan nilang naibenta ang kanilang mga alagang inahin, so nagbigay po kami sa mga miyembro para mapag-umpisahan po nila… "

"Dahil sa ITCPH kami ngayon ay isa ng medium category cooperatives dahil sa pamamagitan nga po ng Comm-Adopt Project ay yun pong ibinigay sa amin ay nadagdagan po ang aming kita" , says Ms. Nelia Castillo.

It was also suggested that the cooperative is ready to manage boars in the future as they became aware of the benefits of putting up a Swine Artificial Insemination laboratory.

This could be of great help in introducing superior genes from top performing boars into the herd.

The Sabang Ibaan Multi-Purpose Cooperative is forever grateful to the Center as it continues its mission of educating, guiding, and empowering farmer communities.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

The ITCPH Learning-by-Doing Principle Runs in the Cornejo Family

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

As we all know, the gene is considered the basic unit of inheritance. It transfers from parents to offspring and contains the information needed to specify physical and biological traits. In the same manner, environmental or family traits can also be passed, or acquired.

Marie Rachelle Jane C. Mangading (Doc. Corn) works as the Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Central Bicol State University of Agriculture. She was raised in a family of pet enthusiasts and of course, alumni of ATI-ITCPH. Her father, Mr. Roseller Cornejo attended the International Trainers Course in 1989 while her mother, Mrs. Edita Cornejo took the Basic Meat Processing in 2014.

In 2019, Doc Corn was encouraged to enroll in the National Trainers Course on Pig Husbandry to gain more knowledge on swine and extension. One of the integral parts of this course is the Backyard Raisers Course. They conducted a training needs assessment, analyzed objectives, designated workload, and facilitated training beneficial to small-hold farmers.

"Before ako pumunta ng ITCPH, kahit papano ay may background na din ako sa swine both theoretical and practical, pero iba pa rin ung Learning by Doing, most especially nung nag-traineeship kami, ang daming techniques, na kung saan ay maiaaply na ung mga tinuro sa amin sa loob ng classroom kase ituturing mong ikaw ang may-ari ng mga animals na ini-assign sayo"

Doc Corn is working on a research paper entitled Beyond Numbers: Determining the Socio-economic and Livelihood Impacts of African Swine Fever and its Control in The Philippines in which she applied all her Extension skills and knowledge.

"Yung natutunan ko sa National Trainers' Course on Pig Husbandry ay nai-apply ko dito lalo na Backyard Raisers Course, naghouse- to-house kami, then focused group discussion (FGD), kaya masasabi ko talagang naging foundation ang ITCPH when we conducted this study, mas malakas ang loob ko kase naexperience ko ‘to at kayang kaya ko ’to"

She also volunteered in a team that gathers data concerning the monitoring and surveillance activities for the early detection and prevention of African Swine fever (ASF) and related diseases in the municipality of Pamplona.

Her husband works as an Agricultural Extension worker where she shares acquired skills and abilities learned from the Center. It is further executed in pig farms in the LGU, especially in biosecurity concerns.

“At ngayon, nga po ay mayroon kaming winowork-out na project about biosecurity, especially with our problem in ASF and also not only for the ASF but for other diseases, once na may biosecurity ka na, meron ka na first line of defense na against those diseases"

The NTCPH extension activities also play a good part in her career. She became the coordinator of the Extension Services Department where she applied learned skills and values in dealing with farmers. In the future, she plans to attend another training that the Center offers.

"Malaki ang naitulong sa akin ng ITCPH lalo na sa aking professional career, kaya sisiguraduhin kong maka-attend ng Swine Production Medicine Course, mas maganda mag-share ng knowledge kung ikaw mismo nag nakapag-train, para hindi ka masabihan ng mga estudyante na hindi nagkukwento ka lang based sa internet. At masasabi kong isa ang ITCPH kung bakit ko gusto ang Swine Industry."

In her closing statement, she mentioned that no one needs to have a background in animal science to learn the principles and practices of ATI-ITCPH. It shows how the Center was able to reach a wide range of participants, not only in location but also across professions.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Lucky 17: Learning the Proper AI Techniques through ATI-ITCPH

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Mariel Leira Belenzo, 29 years old, works as a caretaker of a 3-sow level pig farm in barangay Hindi, Bacacay, Albay. She is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Education, major in Filipino and currently pursuing her second degree, Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Her drive to learn the proper skills in pig husbandry started with not-sogood experiences with animal technicians in the community where she lives. For 2 years, she relied on the knowledge and skills of technicians performing the artificial insemination.

“Kasi di ba dapat kapag technician, sasabihin sa amin kung anu ung mga dapat gawin”.

She acknowledged the expertise of the animal technicians; however, she still experienced some difficulties. It involves unavailability to respond, and challenges in setting appointments. There were even times that she experienced a 2-liter farrowing rate.

Through the power of social media, she learned about ATI-ITCPH. In 2019, she attended two trainings such as Sustainable Pig Farming- LABS and Basic Course on Pig Husbandry. All questions, confusions, and misconceptions were answered during the training.

"Binuo ako ng ITCPH, kasi marami akong hindi alam na naituro nito; sa medicine, yung cycle, simula sa sow hanggang mabuntis, hanggang panganganak, pagwawalay, kailan magkakapon, anung gamot ang ibibigay"

She immediately applied to learn pig farming. From 2-litter size experience, she was able to record a 12-12-17 litter size from 3 sows. But it was a quick success. Soon after, ASF affected their area. Her farm may not be directly affected by the virus, but due to the zoning, it was depopulated. In 2023, she was able to repopulate, returning to pig farming and applying the learnings from ITCPH. She also takes this as an opportunity to help and reach out to people in the community.

"Kami [na] po ang nagseserve na technician. Ang laking tulong at ang sarap sa pakiramdam na kung anung natutunan mo, nai-sshare mo sa iba"

"Iba ang impact sa aking ng ITCPH, mas naging confident ako, binuo nya ako, yung mga mali, naitama nya lahat iyon. Gusto kong bumalik muli at mag train ng Meat Processing at Feednovation: iyon po ang gusto kong matutunan talaga"

Her major takeaway from the Center is the principle of Learning by Doing. She compared ITCPH with some institutions where learning is being realized through practical exposures and applications.

Not more of a suggestion, she recommends continuously capacitate farmers all over the country. With all these experiences, Mariel Belenzo proves that having first-hand experiences and formal education will resolve all questions, confusion, and misconceptions. All of these can only be resolved through attending training from authorized agencies and a pool of field experts, that ATI-ITCPH offers. This is the #TatakITCPH, the Center’s Learning by Doing brand.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Victorious Vic: The Success Story of Marivic Capalad

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

“It was a stroke of luck when I took ITCPH training.”

Marivic “Vic” A. Capalad, 44 years old, works as an instructor of Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC). She is the adviser of the Animal Science Club. She teaches Swine Production, Slaughtering of Farm Animals and Meat Processing.

In 2017, she attended the National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry. It is the flagship training program the Center offers. It equips the participants with technical know-how in various disciplines of swineraising. She was part of the 21st Batch, called as Ha-Pigs.

“Sabi ng mga staff ng ITCPH, kapag nakapag-training ka dito, babalik at babalik ka pa din. Naisip ko, bakit ako babalik, kalayo-layo”.

After NTCPH, Ms. Capalad also took the National Trainer’s Course on Swine Artificial Insemination and Meat Processing: Utilizing Local and Natural Methods of Preservation.

"Totoo nga pala, maadik ka sa ITCPH, hindi ka makokontento sa isang training lang."

Learning by Doing ang main [ingredient] na meron ang ITCPH, kaya marami ka talagang matutunan.

With such exposure, BASC became one of the recipients of the “Nucleus and Multiplier Breeder Farms for Poultry, Swine and Small Ruminants Project” of the Stimulus Package for Agriculture Bayanihan Act II of the National Livestock Program (NLP). The project is worth five million pesos, which includes the 30-sow Level farm with two boars. She was designated as the Project Leader of the Multiplier and Techno-Demo Farm and applied the knowledge and skills she gained. It may be an additional responsibility, but she was happy of learning pig husbandry principles and practices from the Center.

"Kaya ako’y nagpapasalamat ng marami sa ATIITCPH at kay Doc Ruth."

As the Project Leader, Ms. Capalad was responsible for planning and directing all production phases on the farm, communicating with veterinarians to ensure herd health to complying with all bio-security protocols. From ordering feeds, supplies, and equipment to assisting with the breeding of sows, gestation, and farrowing of pigs.

In terms of biosecurity, she imposed a strict protocol. Animal caretakers are living within the perimeter of the building. Guests and visitors will take a 24-hour downtime before entering the building.

Currently, she is drafting a proposal for the Swine Artificial Insemination sa Barangay (SWAIB) Project. This project is also under the National Livestock Program- Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE).

"Ako ay umaasa na sa pakikipagtulungan ng DA-NLP, ATI-ITCPH at BASC ay maisakatuparan na maibalik ang swine raising dito sa Bulacan lalo’t higit dito sa San Ildefonso. Maraming windows at doors ang nag-open sa akin after ko magtraining sa ITCPH. Nakakaadik nga pala talaga."

Vic remains on her mission of contributing to the country’s effort on the recovery and expansion of the Philippine swine industry. This is the #ITCPHway of helping the industry become globally competitive, not just through learning-by-doing, but also learning from each other.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Iba si Eva, BOARing High sa Swine AI

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Training boar is never an easy task to do, particularly for first-timers. The difficulty of handling boars including its management, and technique are some of the factors to be considered if one is to enter into semen collection.

“Mahabang pasensiya talaga ang kailangan pero madali mo siyang matututunan kung talagang determinado ka” , a powerful message from a soft-spoken, and humble Ms. Eva.

Ms. Eva De Vera, 48, is a pig producer and a recipient of the “AI sa Barangay” Project of the Department of Agriculture – National Livestock Program (DA-NLP) through the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center II (ATI-RTC II) in 2020.

“Wala naman talaga akong alam sa AI pero baka nakitaan nila ako ng potensyal para bigyan ako ng ganitong proyekto” , she shared. At this time, Eva was ready to fly abroad and work overseas, to provide for her family. Grateful to the trust of people asking her to accept the project, Eva wholeheartedly welcomed the challenge of starting and sustaining a 300 thousand pesos worth of project from the government.

As a requirement, Eva joined the National Course on Swine Artificial Insemination in 2019 at the Agricultural Training Institute – International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ATI-ITCPH). This one-week training helped her acquire proficiency in semen collection, evaluation, processing, and insemination.

Returning to her hometown in Barangay Darubba, Quezon, she immediately planned on how to apply her learnings from the Center.

“Ang hirap, kasi takot talaga ako sa boar” , she stressed. Eva selected two uncastrated boars from his small-scale pig farm and trained them to mount a dummy. With much perseverance and dedication to venture into AI, Eva succeeded in training boars and collecting semen.

With zero knowledge about boar management, Eva did a pretty well job, enough to make her eager in taking the next steps towards building a competitive AI business center. Provided with a complete set of equipment and quality boars, Eva uses a binocular microscope to evaluate the motility of the freshly collected boar semen.

“Kumpara noong una, ngayon, kayang-kaya ko na talaga” , she said. Her 3 years of experience has sharpened a woman of courage and strength.

During the height of African Swine Fever (ASF), Eva was able to keep her livelihood. Technical assistance was provided through phone calls, clients are limited to getting near her household, pets were secured, and use of footbath and farm clothes were implemented. The presence of CoVid-19 and the occurrence of ASF had a drastic effect on the lives of pig producers. Eva eventually finished the project’s passing of the gift last February 2023, where 30% of the production from the AI business center was given to farmers for free. A total of 231 smallhold pig producers in the Municipality of Quezon benefitted from this repayment scheme, and are expected to improve their stocks’ genetic line and farm production performance. “Mga nasa lagpas 1,000 doses of processed semen po ang naibigay namin for free sa kanila” , Eva added.

As a mother of six, it is necessary for Eva to be resourceful and decisive in everything she does. Supplies for her AI business, are sourced from a reputable company and are delivered through pasa-bus. “May panahong gusto ko na tumigil kasi ang lalayo talaga ng pinupuntahan ko, minsan may 40 minutes travel time tapos may 20 minutes pa na lakarin sa bundok” , she narrated.

Fortunately, Eva could not resist to see her clients not move forward, so she trained them on the basics of swine artificial insemination. “Maganda rin naman kasi yung feedback nila sa akin na ang buhay na biik kada anakan nasa 15” , Eva said.

Daily, Eva sells a maximum of 10 doses of processed boar semen. An estimated 50 clients from private feed companies, small-scale producers, and LGUs are satisfied with the success of the AI sa Barangay.

Eva’s hard work in swine paid off as her first three children completed tertiary education. Being reluctant to own an AI business for a woman with zero understanding of boars is understandable. But Eva proved that lack of knowledge is no longer a barrier to achieve success.

Kaya, Iba ka Eva! Continue to BOAR high and be an inspiration to many.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

From Crops to Hogs: A Newbie’s Journey to a Successful Pig Production

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

“Sa crop production, ang mga tanim puwede mo i-adjust, ipagpaliban ang pag-aabono, pag aapply ng preventive control, at pwedeng hindi na pagkagastosan para kumita, pero sa swine production yun ay hinding hindi pu-puwede. Kailangan talagang pakainin, gastosan pag may sakit, at kailangang puntahan araw-araw para maalagaan upang kumita” , says Isaias, an Instructor I at Isabela State University (ISU), Cauayan Campus, Isabela.

True enough, no one seems to have control when it comes to growing pigs. Unlike crop production, animals need 24/7 care and maintenance. “Minsan Kahit tulog ako, kailangan bumangon kasi may manganganak” , he further adds.

Isaias C. Dela Peña, 31, also made a major adjustment and transition when he was asked to handle swine subjects in the academe. Familiar with other types of animals except pigs, Isaias is a well-versed person to crops. “Ang inaabangan ko talaga noon sa course ay yung feednovation, kasi yun talaga ang strength ko” , he narrated chuckling.

In 2017, Isaias completed the National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry (NTCPH), where he was fully equipped with the technical knowledge and skills of operating a pig farm. Upon returning to ISU, he immediately handled the instructional unit and swine production project and made a specific makeover. With limited funding at that time, he started to make small steps in improving the current situation of the farm.

Out of the 24 fatteners, he selected 5 gilts, as an initial plan to start a farrow-to-finish production. The existing housing structures were also renovated accordingly. “Kasi dati bawat pen naka box type at ang nakalagay doon ay isang inahin kada kulungan, then ang ginawa ko, ginaya ko na yung nasa ITCPH, na may paipitan at hiwalay na paanakan” , Isaias narrated.

Aside from installing gestating pens and farrowing crates, he also succeeded in building a feed storage and quarantine area for incoming animals prior to entering the farm.

The 5-sow level farm was improved and served as a training venue for the Bachelor of Agricultural Technology (BAT) students at the Institute of Agricultural Technology. Among the hands-on activities being done are judging animals based on selection criteria, piglet processing, and artificial insemination.

To ensure that the students know how a pig farm is managed, strict biosecurity was also implemented through a 24-hour downtime and restriction on bringing pork products. Production results are also secured through proper record keeping and a heat check control after weaning. “Dati talaga sa ika 18 to 21 days namin nachecheck if naglalandi ang baboy, pwede pala na 4 to 7 days” , he shared. A vaccination program, deworming schedule, and administration of vitamins were also adapted.

Besides teaching in the four corners of the room, Isaias managed to serve as a lecturer in pig communities, as part of ISU’s extension project “Adopt a Barangay”.

Along with restructuring the school’s training farm, Isaias began to have his 3-sow level farm at home where he applied the technology of feednovation. Pre-germinated yellow corn seeds are fed to animals during the fattening period. “Binababad ko muna ng 30 mins sa tubig tapos i-pre-germinate ng 36 hrs at binibigay ko sa mga patabaing baboy pagkatapos nila kumain ng feeds” , he said. This is being done by Isaias to animals at 4 months of age until it reaches their target market weight.

Everything seems to fall into place both in his personal and professional career. However, there is no smooth sailing neither to crops and hog production. In 2020, African Swine Fever (ASF) rub out Cauayan’s swine production. “Dinispose talaga namin nang as in lahat, at sakto naman na pandemic, at sa online na lang din kami nakakapag turo sa mga estudyante” , he sadly narrated.

Fortunately, the ISU Cauayan Campus was granted a 60-sow level Nucleus Farm by the Department of Agriculture – National Livestock Program (DA-NLP) in 2022. Isaias as the College Extension Coordinator, together with his colleagues’ plans to expand the scope of their college’s “Adopt a Barangay” project and distribute F1 gilts to organized pig producers in Cauayan.

Apart from planning his career growth as a teacher, he is also enthusiastic to revive his farrow-to-finish production and set up an artificial insemination laboratory as an additional source of income for his family.

Today, Sir Isaias remains to be a confident and brilliant instructor at ISU, not only in crop production but also in swine production.

“Hindi na ako nag hesitate noong unang pinahawak sa akin ang swine subjects sa school and instructional unit farm, kasi alam kong kayang-kaya ko na, at tiwalang tiwala na ako sa aking kakayahan sa pagbababuyan” , he emphasized.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

The 90’s Story of an Intern Turned Teacher

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The curiosity and motivation of specializing in swine began when Beth became an intern at the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry, Lipa City, Batangas, in 1999.

Besides training pig producers and extension agents, the Center managed to pull off successful projects and programs for private individuals and groups such as the internship program for agri-students in the early 90s. The conduct of these programs intended for college students showcased how a pig farm operates.

“Ayy ganito pala ang itsura ng forceps” , she uttered during the internship. Beth recalls when an ITCPH staff ordered her to bring a specific tool at the farm. “Bumaba ako sa farm para kuhanin yung forceps, eh hindi ko alam kung alin doon, kaya kinuha ko na lang yung tuckle box” , she shared. Both burst into laughter when Beth came running and narrated what happened.

Compared to the 20th century, agricultural colleges lack instructional materials and farm equipment to capacitate students. “Tanda ko noong college kami, yung ilang tools sa farm, nakakita lang kami kasi dinadala ng Prof namin yung mga gamit niya like fiber glass syringes, hypodermic needles and surgical scissors” , Beth added.

Why swine?

“Ito na yung nagamay ko, simula 1999” , her exact words when asked why she chose to specialize in pigs. This short response entails a huge impact on the training center. The ITCPH is proud to have opened the path for agri-students to share the same spirit of dedication to swine.

After finishing a Bachelor of Agricultural Technology, majoring in Animal Science, Beth managed to be part of private companies for seven years, and 10 years in the local government unit, before shifting to the academe in 2017.

Joining the fun in the academe helped Beth to set foot at the ITCPH after 18 long years. She joined the National Trainers’ Course on Pig Husbandry (NTCPH) and found pig production even more interesting. Excited to impart knowledge to students, her project proposal focused on establishing a 2-sow level pig farm to serve as a training ground for her class.

Determined of bringing the Center’s learning-by-doing principle to Isabela State University (ISU), San Mariano Campus, in Isabela, Beth successfully implemented her proposal. With only 2 Largewhite sows, Beth replaced the stocks with 3 F1 gilts, sourced from Villa Luna Cooperative, in Cauayan, until it became a 6-sow level farm.

With an actual training farm for students, Beth immediately applied her learnings from ITCPH. Keeping records was her first mantra to keep up with the production of animals. She also promotes the practice of dry cleaning, piglet processing, proper injection techniques, body scoring, and backfat measurement.

In charge of sustaining the project, Beth makes sure it attains acceptable farm technical results. Over the years, its farrowing index ranges from 2 to 2.3 cycles per year, with 12-13 piglets born alive, and 10 piglets weaned per litter.

Everything seems to be in place, as the farm is ready to upgrade to a 10-sow level farm until it was infected with African Swine Fever (ASF) in 2021. According to Beth, an estimated loss amounting to Php 226,000.00 was incurred during the outbreak.

For almost five years, the 6-sow level farm witnessed the learning and sharing of experiences between students and teachers during the actual conduct of farm classes. Students enjoy hands-on activities on tooth clipping, castration, iron injection, dry cleaning, feeding, and backfat measuring.

Even with limited resources, Beth pursues to transfer her know-how on pregnancy diagnosis and artificial insemination through the use of videos as instructional materials. “Natutuwa ako na kahit kulang pa ang kaya kong ibigay, marami na sa mga estudyante ko ang AI technician dito sa Isabela, effective kasi yung mga natutunan ko sa ITCPH” , she added as she explains how her internship and participation to NTCPH confidently equipped her on pig husbandry. Beth is also a proud teacher as the shared how the pig farm helped the academe in acquiring a level 3 accreditation.

Currently, Ms. Lilibeth S. Languido, 43, is an Associate Professor III and designated as the Project In-charge of Poultry and Pig Production in ISU, San Mariano Campus. This year, she handles 150 students taking swine production.

“Yung fullfillment ko ng pagiging isang guro yung makita na successful ang mga estudyante ko” , she said. Included in Teacher Beth’s plan is monitoring her students after five years to check if their chosen career is related to animal production.

Today, Ma’am Beth seeks to revive the school’s pig farm to continue bettering the learning experiences of her students, similar to how she felt during her internship days at the ATI-ITCPH.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Reap What You Sow Case 002: The Manukan sa Baranggay at Gulayan sa Paaralan Success Story

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

“Libre itong ibinigay, libre ko ding ibinibigay sa kanila.”

This was the driving motivation of Ms. Milagros Virrey, a Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) parent leader in Dagatan, Lipa City, Batangas, which is one of the Community-Adapt beneficiaries of ATIITCPH through its Stables and Greens Project.

The Stables and Greens is a collaborative project of ATI-ITCPH, East-West Seeds Corporation, and other LGUs in support of DA's "Plant, Plant, Plant Program". In this project, ITCPH provides its qualified alumni the initial financial support, stocks, housing, technical support, and farm business advisories, and conducts monitoring activities. East-West Seeds Corporation, on the other hand, provides high-quality seeds, technical support, and assistance in setting up an ideal small-scale vegetable enterprise.

Starting in 2022, this Stables and Greens Project in Dagatan Lipa City served as a livelihood program for the 4Ps members of the community. After attending the 3-day Seminar on Vegetable and Free-Range Chicken Production in the Center, they applied for the program and become a beneficiary. While students are attending classes through online modality, they took advantage of the gulayan sa paaralan area as a vegetable production site. Through these, they were able to appreciate the value of crop production systems such as crop planning, bed preparations, bed plots, seedling preparations, production, containers, and watering system. Meanwhile, the manukan sa barangay served as a haven for free-range chicken production, where members had the opportunity to raise, produce eggs and grow chicken.

“Successful ho sya gawa nang kami ay natutulungan, hindi naman ako gumastos sa patuka gawa ng mga dahon, yan may tanim nga ho ako duong spinach, may pinatayo ako na malunggay. Iyan ay ipinapamahagi sa myembro, ay di kung halimbawa ay sila ay makakapagparami, lahat ho ay mabibiyayaan. Libre iyong ibinigay, libre ko ding ibinibigay sa kanila” , say Ms. Milagros Virrey.

As classes returned to face-to-face setup, the gulayan sa paaralan project was turned over to Mr. Patroneil G. Fadriguela, the Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) Coordinator of Dagatan Elementary School. Together with his colleagues, Sir Jerome, Mam Cristy, Sir Ivan, and Mam Noemi, they were able to maintain and sustain the project as part of their curriculum, where students took a hands-on involvement. Over the years, these students were able to grow crops such as talong, okra, ampalaya, kamatis, lettuce, pipino, pechay, mustasa, labanos, kangkong, and malunggay. These are being sold to students, teachers, and people in the community. As such, its profit becomes part of the school’s revolving fund in addressing EPP-related concerns.

“Sa tulong ng ITCPH at saka ng East-West Seed at saka itong Stables and Greens Project, masasabi ko na successful kasi nakikita naming yong ani, at nakikita naming ang kita. Sa konteksto ng pagtuturo, naibabahagi namin sa mga studyante yong mga natutunan ko sa ITCPH, at sa East West Seeds, at sa Stables and Greens project.. Ang balik nito ay ang pagbabahagi ko din sa mga bata at alam ko na pagdating ng panahon, itong mga bata naman ang magbabahagi ng kaalaman. Kung tayo ay may sapat na kaalaman ay natitiyak ko na makakatikim din tayo ng ani na sariling atin.” , says Mr. Fadriguela.

With these initiatives of empowering farmers toward productivity and profitability, ITCPH was able to emphasize the important role of community development through crops and poultry production in securing a sustainable source of living for their families, school, and communities.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Reap What You Sow Case 001: The Sorok Uni Foundation, Inc. Success Story

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Sorok Uni Foundation, Inc (SUFI) is a non-stock, non-profit organization established in 2022 that aims at providing a resettlement program to abandoned Filipino Cured Leprosy Patients (CLP) and their families. SUFI is related to the Samaria Mission International Inc (SMII) which has long been operating a “Philippine Rehabilitation Program for CLP” since 1996 up to now at the Samaria Village, Caloocan City, Manila. The foundation is one of the recipients of the Center’s Stables and Greens Project.

The Stables and Greens is a collaborative project of ATI-ITCPH, East-West Seeds Corporation, and other LGUs in support of DA's "Plant, Plant, Plant Program". In August 2022, the foundation became an official beneficiary of the program through a Memorandum of Agreement ceremony. Its partnership with Mocha Farm paved the way for SUFI to know about the program being offered by the Center. As part of the requirements, some of the members attended the 3-day Seminar on Vegetable and Free- Range Chicken Production in the Center.

In this project, ITCPH provides the initial financial support, stocks and housing, technical support, farm business advisories, and conducts monitoring activities. East-West Seeds Corporation, on the other hand, provides high-quality seeds, technical support, and assistance in setting up an ideal small-scale vegetable enterprise.

With 11 members, consisting of various clientele such as CLP and homeless people, they were able to establish a vegetable production site. They were able to apply the #LearningByDoing teaching of ITCPH in crop planning, bed preparations, bed plots, seedling preparations, production, containers, and watering system.

"Nakikinabang ang buong community, not only the community kasi nakakapag-share po kami sa labas, at sa mga bisita" , says Ms. Jonarace T. Lampa, Community Coordinator, SUFI.

In less than a year, they were able to harvest various crops such as long chili (siling haba), tomatoes, eggplants, string beans, lady fingers (okra),
snow cabbages (pechay), mustard greens (mustasa), bottle gourds (upo), cucumbers and silk squash (patola). Likewise, eggs are also produced.

These products are being sold to the neighboring community, residents, and members of the SUFI. Proceeds go directly to the foundation as its circulating fund. "Napakalaking tulong po ng ITCPH kasi nandoon yong nabigyan kami ng tulong sa pag-aalaga ng manok at mga pananim… napapakinabangan talaga at naibabahagi naming sa iba" , added Ms. Marivic Tamayo, a member of SUFI.

With the future improvements raised, such as the fencing, water system, sustainable seeds, and vaccine for chicken, the Center remains committed to strengthening food security through community-based agri-livestock production that is climate change resilient.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Preparing the Next Gen from Decades of Pig Farming

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

“Tiyaga-tiyaga lang, hindi araw-araw ay fiesta” , says Mr. Cayo De Villa Casanova, a pig producer for more than forty years.

Like most hog farmers, Ka Cayo has been raised by his parents with pig farming as their main source of income. Farming seemed to be an interesting hobby for Ka Cayo for him to take Bachelor of Science in Agriculture majoring in Animal Science.

Since then, and even after college, Ka Cayo was determined to run his own business. He started a ‘boar for hire’ service in the 1980’s and eventually led him to expanding the venture. “Mga after two years, yan nagdagdag na ako ng mga inahin, backyard farm lang” , he narrates.

Able to earn a living for more than a decade from a pig business, it was in 1995 when Mr. Cayo Casanova started to participate in the course offerings of the ITCPH. Among the trainings he completed are the Course on Artificial Insemiantion, Intensive Course on Pig Husbandry, Feedmilling and the Basic Meat Processing.

“Siguro if hindi ako nakapag-training, hindi magiging ganito kaganda ang farm” , Ka Cayo shared.

With his past experieces when he was still a kid, and gained knowledge and skills during college, and actual experiences in running a business, it is with no doubt that Ka Cayo can definitely make a long way.

Prior to the pandemic in 2020, he was able to maintain a 300-sow level semi-commercial farm in Poblacion 6, Calaca City, Batangas. Aside from a farrow-to-finish production, he also have a total of six boars for artificial insemination. “Bago ako mag training sa ITCPH, fresh boar semen yung binebenta ko for AI service” , he stated.

Upon attending the AI course in ITCPH, Ka Cayo improved his AI business. Passionate of strengthening the needs and capability of his farm, he personally trained two of his staff in heat detection, semen collection, evaluation, processing, and artificial insemination.

From the usual and limited competence of his boar-for-hire and fresh boar semen in the early years of pig farming, Ka Cayo successfully sells a total of 300 vials of processed boar semen in a month.

“Natutunan ko rin sa ITCPH na dapat maganda ang kuhaning breeders, meron ako ngayong Duroc Pietrain, White Duroc, at Landrace x Largewhite” , Ka Cayo added.

Molded through time, this hands-on farm owner receives positive feedback from clients, making his AI laboratory a busy place all year-round. Aside from merely selling boar semen, he also shows the quality of the semen through a miscroscope. Most of the customers come from Calaca City, Laurel, Balayan, and Nasugbu.

Besides trading live animals, cacassed and processed pork products hold a place in the market. “May panahon kasi dati na tumumal sa baboy, lumaki ang mga alaga kaya nasubukan na rin namin na mag-katay at mag-process” , Ka Cayo shares.

Today, around 80-90 finishers are butchered monthly. While most are sold as fresh meat, some are processed into longganisa, tocino, tapa, barbeque, embutido, and shanghai.

“Mahilig din kasi akong magluto kaya naging madali yung pag-apply sa mga natutunan ko sa meat processing course ng ITCPH” , he narrated.

Ka Cayo and his family are now enjoying the perks of their hard-labor in pig farming. Two years ago, Ka Cayo was challenged of marketing hogs during the pandemic and outbreak of african swine fever in the country.

Lucky to not have been infected with ASF, Ka Cayo continues to practice biosecutiy measures in his farm since the market area is located 4km away from the farm, animal caretakers are stay-in, and disinfection system is in place.

When asked on the secret of keeping the farm, despite other options for business, Ka Cayo smiled. His practical advice is to be a hands-on business owner, to attend trainings, and lastly to cull animals whenever necessary. “Hindi araw-araw fiesta, kaya kailangan talaga ng tiyaga” , he stated.

With four decades of stability in farming, Ka Cayo wishes to pass the business to one of his family members, who recently joined one of the courses at ITCPH in November 2022.

Ka Cayo’s journey only proves that pig farming is a profitable business. His passion, patience, and dedication of growing rooted in many ways, such as passing the enterprise to the next generation of the family.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Widner’s Will in Pig Farming

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

A Veterinarian in Sumilao, Bukidnon preferred to be a swine practitioner right after college. “Kahit na niyayaya ako ng Tatay ko na mag poultry, hindi ko talaga feel, baboy talaga yung gusto ko” , he narrates. He first engaged himself as a hands on pig farmer and entrepreneur rather than any other veterinary careers.

Known as Doc Phil by his ITCPH co-trainees, Dr. Widner Phil S. Tapdasan, was able to continue his veterinary medicine profession through a small veterinary clinic for pets. Technically capable of running a business, an agri-vet supply was also established at that time where he was able to provide extension services to farmer clients. With two agri-businesses in place, Widner also manages a 10-sow level backyard pig production owned by his father, and another 3-sow of his own which gradually increased by time. Thankful enough to the financial and moral support of his family, Widner decided to go into teaching.

While keeping the business, he simultaneously spent two years in Central Mindanao University (CMU) as a VetMed instructor.

Being an instructor in a university paved the way for Widner to participate in the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry of the ITCPH. "Striking kasi yung international training center tapos dito lang matatagpuan sa Pilipinas, then yung cost ng training, napakababa, at wala kang mahahanap na ganon" , Dr. Widner added.

Overjoyed with the training he received from the Center, he was very idealistic upon his return in the academe. Few months later, he was appointed as the Swine Farm Manager of the University. “Bata pa ako for that position, ginawa akong Manager, kasi the University President at that time wanted a Veterinarian to handle the farm” , he shared.

Confident enough, Widner took the challenge of handling the Swine Project as part of the Income Generating Project (IGP) of the university. Prior to the arrival of stocks in partnership with a private company, he tried to make sure the facility is in conformance with the learnings he acquired at the Center.

However, when the 50-sow level farm started its operation Widner had to leave his teaching career.

Having an existing agribusiness, selling of finishers was a smooth sailing income for his family until the outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) reached Mindanao. Discouraged to keep the production, his father decided to stop his pig production including Widner as they separately own sows in one farm though management is just one. While waiting to sell the remaining sows at the farm, three sows unexpectedly returned to heat. Fortunately, this helped Widner continue the operation, until he added replacement gilts.

Dr. Widner is a hands-on farm owner and a businessman. Venturing into pig farming financially assisted Widner to expand his other business. Currently, he is maintaining a 10-sow level farrow-to-finish production and happily applies the knowledge and skills he acquired from his trainings at ITCPH. One of his best practices is optimizing locally available materials in achieving proper pig nutrition of hogs without spending much through the use of fermented plant juice, fermented fruit juice, and lactic acid bacteria serum (probiotics). “Meron kasi kaming rice and corn mill, so yung rice and corn bran, hinahaluan namin yan ng probiotics at concoctions” , shares Widner. This technology was adapted from the Sustainable Pig Farming Course he also took from ITCPH.

"Dati limited lang talaga ang alam ko sa practical activities sa baboy, pero noong nag training ako sa ITCPH, technically and practically natulungan talaga ako" said Dr. Widner. Even during his teaching years in the academe, Widner was very transparent on how he was able to improve his lessons and technical discussions. “Practical approach yung talaga nakatulong sa akin, kasi iba yung nagtuturo ka pero binasa mo lang” , he added.

Also, prior to his resignation in the university, his proposed project in ITCPH the Project KASTA – Knowledge Advancement in Swine Technical Aptitude was approved as an extension project of their college by the university and became the project head. The said project aims to equip backyard pig farmers with knowledge and skills in pig farming in the municipality of Maramag.

"Though I was not able to be part of the implementation, I am still very happy kasi from that time until now, present pa rin yung Project KASTA with a lot of graduates already" he shared.

The said project was successfully implemented through CMU, a private company, and ATI-RTC 10. With the presence of ASF in the country, Widner is keeping his backyard farm through the basic biosecurity measures. For the meantime, he also manages to provide technical assistance to backyard farms through phone calls.

"Talagang napu-put into practice ko talaga, at sa ITCPH ko nakuha yung practical and highly technical knowledge and practices sa swine management and medicine na mai-aapply ko sa day-to-day activities with confidence. Hindi lang ako ang nakaka benefit pero pati na rin yung ibang farmers" he stated.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Academic Pursuits of a Scholar

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

“Hindi madali magturo pero inembrace ko at minahal ko kasi gusto ko makatulong at mashare yung knowledge na natutunan ko”
– Sir Ar-Ar.

A young man in Nueva Ecija made his way to proper education upon receiving several scholarships from government institutions. Clear with his intention of bringing a brighter life for his family, Mr. Arnold V. Damaso took the chance of going to college.

He completed a bachelor's degree in agriculture majoring in crop science through the help of the Agricultural Training Institute in Region I. Gaining the momentum of learning, he then received another scholarship from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for a 2-year course on agricultural technology. Decided of achieving greater heights, he proudly became one of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholars for his Master in Crop Science at the Central Luzon State University (CLSU).

Returning the favor of being a scholar, Sir Ar-Ar is required to work for the government for a minimum number of years. More than making his parents proud, Sir Ar-Ar earned the position of Dean in the College of Agriculture, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology.

Before becoming a Dean, he took advantage of participating in online trainings conducted by the ITCPH during the pandemic. He successfully attended the Courses on Meat Processing, Swine Artificial Insemination, Pig Farming as an Enterprise, and Pork to Fork: Multiplying Business Opportunities. As an instructor, he is a firm believer that knowledge is of no value if not put into practice.

Taking four courses virtually in 2021 made him realize that he needed to step foot at ITCPH. “Pag online kasi more on theory, demonstrations, hands-on and experience lacking” , he shared. However, he was still able to cascade gained knowledge in the subjects he handle such as swine production, small and large ruminants, and agricultural economics and marketing.

With lesser restrictions in 2022, Sir Ar-Ar finally had the chance to be part of an in-person training. “May idea na ako about probiotics pero yung buo na kaalaman about LABS, dun ko talaga natutunan” , he narrated.

Part of the Sustainable Pig Farming – Lactic Acid Bacteria Serum (SPFLABS) Course is to produce a liquid culture of specific beneficial microorganisms that can provide amazing benefits to crops and animal production when incorporated in the feeds, drinking water or as part of the medication of the animals.

Such came in handy when an International Forum in August 2022 was held in Indonesia, where Sir Ari-Ar served as one of the distinguished speakers about the production of probiotics in livestock. Through the University, Sir Ar-Ar shared how LABS can help prevent foot and mouth disease outbreaks in swine and cattle. Around 40 Indonesian farmers attended the said forum.

Sir Ar-Ar first entered the ITCPH when he was still a Research and Extension Coordinator at the University. It was also this time that he encouraged displaced farmers in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija to lessen the use of commercial inputs in planting crops. A total of 12 crops and livestock farmers use LABS in maintaining their production in Brgy. Bagting.

As a crop science graduate, Sir Ar-Ar was honest that he had a very little understanding about swine. “Siguro around 80% ng alam ko sa pagbababuyan ay galing sa ITCPH” , he said.

Besides trainings, forums, and extension projects, the Dean was successful in having the production of LABS be an integral part of the laboratory activities of students. “Some of our students ay nagamit na rin itong LABS sa kanilang mga thesis” , Sir Ar-Ar stated.

Committed to providing excellence in the college he serves, Dean Arnold is optimistic that more students will enroll in agriculture-related degrees as he did.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

The Agri-Adventures of Carlo Jose

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

"I can still wear a tie and a suit, and talk to any type of people, but the moment I finish, I want to get back to being a farmer"

Carlo Jose Calixto David, 53, reminisced how adventurous he was during his childhood. Raised in the urban, CJ was much involved in the corporate world. As a degree holder of BA Political Science in UP Diliman, he managed the operations, marketing, and sales of known wellness companies.

During this time, CJ learned so much from his field exposures and became more of an extension worker. Whenever he is on travel, he would prefer to take public transportation for him to be more involved in the community. One time, while waiting for a bus, he met and spoke with a rice farmer in the shed.

This short conversation changed CJ’s view of life and realized that there is something wrong in the grassroot level. “Tinanong ko yung rice farmer kung saan niya dadalhin and dala-dala niyang bigas,at ang sabi niya sa palengke. Tinanong ko naman kung masarap ba yung bigas na dala niya, at ang sabi niya sa akin – Hindi ko po alam. Imagine a rice farmer who is not able to taste his own produce and buys the cheapest variety of rice for his family” , he sadly shared.

Since then, the impact of his community projects on him became weak. “I have to feel what is happening in the ground” , he said. Just like mountaineering, CJ knew that the preparation for this would be crucial. He needs to know the route and be aware of the risks he might encounter.

NAVIGATION
As an experienced sales manager, CJ knew the direction he would go. He shifted to agriculture, but this time, he sells farm concepts. A high-class organic farm and resort in Batangas became a perfect playground for him to learn about farming. While busy making a living, CJ began organizing and helping groups attain agricultural sustainability. In 2017, he also started to take courses at the ATI-ITCPH. “I attended the Meat Processing Course to guide a cooperative on making a higher profit from their production” , he shared.

Joining CJ in attending the training were four members of the Native Animal Farmers Agriculture Cooperative in Baras Rizal. “Hindi nila ako maintindihan na mababa masyado ang benta nila sa organic animals. Ang sabi ko sa kanila, they should command a good price for it, kaya isinama ko sila sa training” , he explained. As planned, attending the course guided their way to attaining better farm profitability. There were a few modifications to meat preservation.

CJ taught of using natural ingredients in preparing tapa, tocino, longganisa, and irish blood sausage. Instead of using sucrose, either honey or pineapple juice was used as an alternative. Fruit extracts from beetroot also served as natural food colorants. Oregano leaves also added an aroma to the delish processed products.

For two years, the cooperative was able to succeed in selling its products through ‘word of mouth. While they were preparing for online selling, unfortunately, African Swine Fever (ASF) hit Rizal.

CLIMBING TECHNIQUES
"ITCPH arms you in the battles on the ground C“J proudly stated."

His raw technical knowledge and skills in pig production were capacitated through the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry in
2018. Originally from Ortigas, CJ goes all the way to explore the different farming communities in the country.

A newly established Farm School in Mexico, Pampanga, managed to take him as a trainer on swine production. While serving as a trainer, CJ organized another Farmers Association in Barangay Manena, San Luis, Pampanga. He facilitated the acquisition of 8 native sows and a boar for the group and taught them extensive pig production. Since his goal is to go into value-adding, lechon became an easy market. “Since maliit yung
native animals, nag hybrid kami para mas malaking baboy ang magawa nila for lechon” , shares CJ.

The adventure of CJ continues when he got stuck in Masbate, looking for seeds to be used for fodder hydroponics. He practically lived with livestock farmers during the lockdown and used his time to teach silage production.

During the pandemic, CJ had to pause for a while in attending courses, but carried on with his technical assistance to 7 farmer and indigenous groups he established across the regions.

FIRST AID
Being restless and uncertain in the corporate world, CJ finally cured himself. “Farming is pretty much like life” , he stated. Apart from being a mountaineer, and a private extension worker, CJ is also a Rotarian. In his second year of being in the Rotary, he taught pig farmers proper waste disposal in Pitogo Quezon.

Today, CJ hopes to popularize his brand “Happy Lechon” and choice cuts, which he aims to sell in Manila. In the early months of 2023, commercial pigs will be raised on his farm in Barangay Tamac, Padre Garcia, Batangas, through natural farming, deep litter bedding system, and forage feeding.

The integrated farm which is now operational aims to involve the marginalized sector to be aware of the benefits and practices of natural farming.

“To make the regular people jump into farming, you have to make the resources convenient and easily accessible for them” , CJ’s parting words when asked why he pursued helping farming communities as a private individual.

Even with uncertainty, it was clear for Carlo Jose to go into farming. Driven to be exposed to different places, and learn from people’s experiences, CJ continues his passion for helping communities build sustainable pig production.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Homebound Success: A Former OFW Turned Farm Owner

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Mr. Jed B. Valencia is a graduate of BS Industrial Technology Major in Instrumentation and Control Technology from the University in Batangas, Batangas City, and a resident of Poblacion, Balete, Batangas. He used to work abroad from 2011-2019, where building tanks for the refinery and
mining industry in a foreign country is his daily grind. Mr. Valencia started with a 120-Sow Level Swine Farm located in Brgy. Malagonlong, Lipa City, Batangas. Currently, the facility can house up to 250 sows with 5 caretakers. When he had his firstborn, his wife encouraged him to take over the family’s pig business. As a former OFW, he wants to be with his family then. He took the risk in the field of agriculture which he was clueless about, neither related to his professional experiences. He then decided to undergo formal training in pig husbandry.

In February 2020, Mr. Valencia took his first training (face-to-face), the Basic Course on Pig Husbandry. This was followed by an online course on Artificial Insemination. He enjoyed his experiences during training. Besides the technical knowledge he equipped, he gained a lot of friends through his classmates and instructors. Management of sows was one of the subjects that Mr. Valencia focused on. This is for the reason that his business follows a farrow-to-finish operation. Through these learning experiences, he became a regular client of the Center’s AI Business Center.

When African Swine Fever (ASF) breaks out, a total of 587 heads on his farm tested positive. These included sows, weaners and finishers. “Malaki ang naging epekto nito sa akin at sa buong pamilya, halos 14-15 million ang nawala sa amin ng dahil sa ASF. Dumating din ung oras na gusto ko ng tumigil, pero naisip ko, hindi naman doon lang tumitigil ang mundo, kailangan ko lang mag-pursigi ulit.” Mr. Valencia recalled, that during his training on Basic Course on Pig Husbandry, Introduction to Artificial Insemination was discussed. Gaining interest on swine artificial insemination, Mr. Valencia acquired 3 boars. He asked for the assistance of the ATI-ITCPH through Dr. Ruth S. Miclat-Sonaco and endorsed him to Mr. Francisco Ramos, a boar expert. Mr. Ramos taught him the technique of training boars, the process of semen collection, evaluation, and AI via video call. Though in person training was far better than online learning, ASF and CoVid-19 transmission pose a big danger for both.

"Kapag gusto mo talaga, matututo ka" , Mr. Valencia shares.

As to biosecurity practices, his farm implements a strict biosecurity protocol. He moved the market area from his farm by a considerable distance, elevated fences, facilitated frequent disinfection, built a shower room, provided quarters for the caretakers, and a lot more.

"Nagtraining ako, kase ang gusto ko mas marami akong alam para hindi nila ako madiktahan"

This is one of the reasons why Mr. Jed Valencia attended courses in ATIITCPH, that is, to acquire first-hand knowledge and skills from credible experts in swine, making him confident as one of the key players in the industry.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

“Wais si Canis”: Celebrating Small Wins in Educating Smallhold Pig Farmers

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

“Pinanganak ata talaga ako para sa pagsasaka” , Canis stated.

A 4H Club Member in Magdalena, Laguna pursues integrated farming as a living. At an early age, Canis sees agriculture as a very interesting practice. This led him on taking agri-related courses and venture on agri-business.

Louie Gene D. Gadayan, popularly known as Canis enjoys the beauty of farming in a 3000 sq.m land. “Dito na talaga ako sa farm nakatira, para mas matutukan ko itong farm” , he shared. Consuming less time of going back and forth to his backyard farm, Canis decided of staying full-time in a small agri-business he started in 2021.

Canis is one of the Center’s alumni in the Practical Course on Pig Husbandry and Course on Swine Artificial Insemination in 2019. At that time, he was a fresh graduate of Agriculture in Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU) and the President of the Head, Heart, Hands, and Health (4H) Club of Magdalena.

Even before going to ITCPH, Canis has always been handy to local farmers. Upon completing the training at the Center, he became more useful in the lives of many. His 5-week stay at ITCPH together with the other 4H Club members molded him to be a better farmer.

Prior to the pandemic, a total of seven 4H members and private individuals received one native piglet from him as paiwi. Aside from continuing his “Paiwi sa Barangay” project, he provides free technical assistance on sow and piglet management, and other best practices he acquired during the training.

Sharing knowledge and skills is not new to Canis. He has been teaching farmers and livestock raisers for many years ago. Participating in the Center’s course offerings provided him with more opportunities on improving their production capacity as smallhold farmers.

“Naituturo ko sa kanila kung kailan ba talaga dapat masumpitan ang isang dumalaga, yung estrus cycle ng mga inahin, at yung tamang pag ta-transport ng semilya ng baboy” , he narrated. Aside from educating farmers, Canis also serves as an on-call livestock technician on swine artificial insemination. According to him, around 5-6 clients are facilitated monthly, giving him additional source of income.

Today, friends, private individuals, and students come to El Canis Farm to learn integrated farming. Visitors enjoy harvesting seasonal crops while understanding animal production on cattle, horses, goats, rabbits, poultry, ducks, and native pigs. Canis has also started to cook local dishes that are served during the farm visit.

“Hindi pa ganoong ka developed itong farm, pero tinatahak ko na yung gusto kong business, na may bisita, may pagkain” , he added. Among his clients feedback include appreciation on managing an integrated farm flourish in a minimal size of land and sustaining Canis’ daily life.

Though Canis was not able to grow white pigs yet, his dedication and passion for helping the farming households in Barangay Balanac served as a role model to his co-4H club members. Many are privileged to learn and earn from pig raising but not everyone is capable of extending hands to the needy.

As a training center that specializes in pig husbandry, one of its functions is molding private individuals to be confident in sharing the best practices in swine.

Canis is optimistic about the promotion of farm tourism while ensuring that the smallhold pork producers in his area receive the same knowledge and skills he acquired at ITCPH.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

The Other World of Business: Marco Invests on Pig Farming

Mon, 09 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

“I enjoyed it because I felt that the learnings were rigorous enough for me to feel confident in pursuing pig farming,” said Marco M. Pascual when asked about his learning experience at ITCPH.

Marco, a BS Entrepreneurial Management graduate of the University of Asia and the Pacific and currently an owner of various businesses, is new to the world of agriculture. Looking for a way to spend his time wisely while managing his other businesses in the country, he thought about going into farming.

“I wanted to spend my time wisely in Pangasinan. I would go to the province once a week and would only stay for 2-3 hours and I thought that there must be something else I could do here to make my regular visits more efficient. I think it’s primarily for that reason that inspired me to get into hog farming,” said Marco.

Because he had no prior experience or knowledge of agriculture, he enrolled in ITCPH's Basic Pig Husbandry and Artificial Insemination course in 2016. When ask why he chose piggery, he revealed, “To be honest about it, I don’t know. But one thing I will attribute my success in learning about the business were because of mentors who I could talk to about the business.. That aspect was I think crucial in keeping me interested in the business.”

While taking courses at ITCPH in 2016, Marco shared that he was also simultaneously in the process of acquiring land in Pangasinan specific for the farm. He then eventually started to manage a commercial farm in full operations the following year, 2017. With African Swine Fever (ASF) still lingering around, he envisions reaching the full capacity of the farm within the year.

Together with his four employees, whom he sent to ITCPH, they trained the other animal caretakers and taught them how to manage a farm and raise pigs the ITCPH way. Up to this day, they have continued to use the learnings they acquired at the Center.

“Get qualified people and invest in them” , Marco added. Four of his ten staff were able to attend the Basic Course on Pig Husbandry and Course on Swine Artificial Insemination. The said trainings helped maintained a farrow-to-finish operation, including F1 sows and superior boars from known breeder farms. Processing of boar semen was immensely used on the farm resulting in multiple farm efficiencies.

Fortunately, their pigs were spared from the African swine fever (ASF) that swept the country in 2020. According to him, ASF serves as a wake-up call to pork producers, making them realize how important it is to invest in a biosecure farm.

“Maayos ang biosecurity namin at hanggang sa ngayon, continous pa rin ang paghahanap namin ng paraan upang ma-improve ang biosecurity sa farm. In theory madami kang pwedeng gawin, in reality lahat ng iyan ang kinikailangan ng pera. Pero sa aming makakaya, ginagawa namin ang lahat para ang biosecurity namin ay matatag” he stated.

Some of the biosecurity measures practiced and applied in the farm include scheduled disinfection, foot bath, proper PPE for all production employees, bird-proofed housing facilities, rodent control, in-house staff, 48-hour downtime for visitors and animal caretakers, and strict human movement within the farm meaning workers are prohibited to enter other buildings, and borrowing of farm tools are prohibited.

Moreover, Marco does not want to be complacent despite having surpassed the ASF outbreak in 2020. He still considers ASF to be one of the most difficult challenges in pig raising because vaccines for it are not yet available.

Meanwhile, Marco also expressed how important training is and how ITCPH has helped him to be well-equipped in pig raising and pig farming in general.

“Ang pig raising hindi lang naman yan about husbandry lamang. Meron ding kaunting engineering, dapat businessman ka rin. Marunong ka rin dapat sa science ng baboy. Lahat ng tinuro duon sa ITCPH and pig husbandry in general, sa aking pananaw ay importante,” he said.

When asked what advice he would give to those interested in starting a pig farm, Marco said, “My advice for them is to really know the business very well. While I espouse a lot of gut feel in doing business, agriculture should be treated differently. Yes, gut feel will still play an important role, but a good portion of pig husbandry is very scientific and medical. And I think if you include that in your management style – that of being scientific, technical and medical – you will surely progress in pig farming.”

“Pig raising as a business is very exciting. But as we all know, like in any other business, you have to get ready for a lot of headaches too. But generally, I’m happy. I enjoy the work, I enjoy the business.”

Similar to Marco's story, trying new things and entering a world that is unfamiliar to him may be risky and challenging, but there is no harm in trying, especially if it is accompanied by education and training.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Reaping Phile Rae's Dedication at Work

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

One of the keys to living a fulfilling life and having a great career is to never stop learning and looking for ways to improve.

Despite having years of experience in livestock, Phile Rae Bonggo still took the National Trainer's Course on Pig Husbandry and Course on Swine Artificial Insemination at the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ITCPH) in 2016.

“Ito yung first formal education ko talaga about pigs” , says Phile Rae. Performing the duties of a livestock inspector, he often received more work related to large ruminants such as cattle and buffalo, than pig husbandry.

Upon completing the long courses at the Center, he began to focus more on pig raising. “Wala kaming pig farm under the LGU, pero yung mga skills na nakuha ko from ITCPH nagagawa ko pa rin” , he added. Technical assistance on sow management, finishers, and piglet processing (ear tagging, iron injection, tooth clipping, castration) are usually facilitated through farm visits. More so, Phile Rae began to serve as a resource speaker to public and private trainings tapping pig husbandry topics, particularly the swine artificial insemination (AI).

His re-entry plan on reviving the breeding center of the City Veterinary Office of Malaybalay, Bukidnon was a success. “Kasi may existing kami na breeding center sa baboy. Noong 2019, binuhay ulit namin yon” , he shared.

Phile Rae, was confident in re-establishing their breeding facility in the hopes that he would be able to assist more local pig farmers particularly on upgrading the sow genes and improving the number of production. “Kaunti lang din kasi yung clients namin nung araw, around 15-20 sows served lang per month” , when asked about the former status of the breeding center.

The usual ‘collect and serve’ practice in catering to the needs of pork producers shifted to swine AI in October 2019. Their office was one of the many recipients of the Department of Agriculture – National Livestock Program (DA-NLP) “AI sa Barangay” Project. Equipped with knowledge and skills in AI, he acted as the Project Focal Person.

“Kailangang masusi sa pagkolekta ng semilya, kasi one time na discard lahat dahil nalagyan ng ihi” , he shared. Currenty assigned in the laboratory, he also works hand-in-hand with another staff who is responsible for training the boars, and collecting boar semen. Around 70 clients purchase the processed boar semen at their office.

With the acquisition of animals (4 superior boars) and a complete set of equipment (sterilizer, refrigerator, water bath, and microscope), the AI Center continues to cater to the needs of nearby pig farming communities. Further, it provides more opportunities for Phile Rae to practice and attain first-hand information as he immerses himself in the daily activities in the laboratory.

True enough, aside from evaluating the quality of boar semen, and processing it for sale, a laboratory experiment on increasing its potential was realized. Pouring intensive work, tests, and research, Phile Rae was able to increase the motility of boar semen through (what he called) pulling. “Sa single kasi, nasa 75% ang motility, compared sa mixture ng breeds (pulling) na nasa 85%” , he proudly narrated.

“Nagagamit [ko] talaga yung mga natutunan. Yung nakasanayan kasi dito ng mga matatanda, yung semen bottle pag nalagyan na yan ng semilya, babalutin ng newspaper, at babasain para ma-preserve yung semilya. Ngayon wala nang gumagawa nuon. Naturuan na,” he shared. Besides teaching the proper handling of semen, Phile Rae’s confidence is guided by science, research, and day-to-day learnings in maintaining the “AI sa Barangay” Project in Malaybalay.

Clearly, knowledge is power, especially when it is applied, preserved, and passed down to future generations.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

It is Better Late, Than Never

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Going into any kind of business without any know-how is considered a big risk. However, if given appropriate action, one can immediately improve and stabilize the operation.

The journey of Mr. Noel Dagoy proves that learning is an integral part of preparing the sustainability of a business. Noel is a middle-age Cebuano who started a pig enterprise from the market’s demand in Valencia, Negros Oriental.

In 2018, Meltina Farm was established with only a few heads of growers. Upon running a finisher production, he admitted that their basic knowledge is not enough to run a piggery. Aside from encountering difficulties, and day-to-day challenges on farm and finisher management, financial constraints were faced too due to major cost on feeds and mortality.

“At dun ko na nakilala ang ITCPH, kasi naisip ko na talagang kailangan ko mag step-up para sa negosyo ng pagbababuyan, dahil marami pa kong kailangan matutunan” , shares Noel.

Sure of making the farm be another source of income, Noel decided to undergo a formal training in pig husbandry. Searching the web, the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry was found. His first course participation in 2019 helped him in producing quality market hogs.

“Yung Basic Course on Pig Husbandry maganda kasi mapipilitan kang mag-isip kung paano mo i-aapply yung mga natutunan mo using their template sa re-entry plan” , he added. Just like the other course offerings of the Center, participants are expected to present a proposal on starting or expanding a pig production.

Acquiring technical know-how and skills in raising pigs were beyond Noel’s expectations. The Center’s complete facilities and pool of experts built his confidence and prepared him to being a proud businessman. His exposure to classroom discussions and practical activities at the training farm eventually led him on buying superior breeders too.

Learning that the housing facility highly contributes to the performance of animals, Noel heavily invested on improving the pig pens. Currently, a 30-sow level farm is being maintained even at the height of CoViD-19 and African Swine Fever outbreak.

Noel has attended several trainings at ITCPH. The subject economics was also appreciated. According to his technical calculations, in two-years time, the investment has already been returned, making the establishment of another business possible.

The modern pork producer engaged into value-adding activity. The “Meltina Meatshop” in Barangay Banilad, Dumaguete City supplies pork within the nearby towns and cities of Negros Oriental. An average of two to three live animals are butchered daily making around 150-200 kilograms of fresh meat available to consumers. This undertaking has also created employment and benefitted a total of six workers.

He happily shares that everything he learned were applied in the actual farm operation, resulting to a positive impact not only in sales but to the quality of animals and meat they are able to produce. Noel even enumerated all the aspects of pig husbandry which he deemed to be very useful in his pig farm.

Housing. Because of the training I was able to know the required measurements, spacing, and ventilation system for animals to live comfortably.

Waste Management. Managing animal wastes through a septic tank was very helpful in the protection of the environment and maintaining good relations to the neighborhood. Dry cleaning is also practiced, and hopes to have a biogas digester installed in the future.

Artificial Insemination. Since we shifted from finisher production to sow-to-finish operation, artificial insemination secured the safety of the farm particularly in the transmission of diseases through direct contact. AI is being managed through both collect and serve process and the use of extended boar semen.

Breeding selection. The basic knowledge on breeding selection is very important in meeting the farm targets through high litter index and number of piglets reared per year.

“Kaya kung tatanungin ako, napakalaki talaga ng naitulong ng ITCPH lalo na yun mismong training nila ng Basic Course on Pig Husbandry sa aking farm” , Noel adds.

Besides the success of Noel, the Center is more privileged to have molded private individuals (like him) believe in the earning capacity of a pig enterprise.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

No Disappointment at Volunteering: The Journey of a First-Timer at ITCPH

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

“Mag-take ka ng NCII sa TESDA para pwede kang magturo, at sagot ng school ang training mo” , says a Campus Director to one of his employees.

An agricultural technician in Occidental Mindoro State University in the name of Edgardo M. Cadlaon is well-versed in animal production. Starting his career through cattle and swine related projects in the university, he is currently building technical know-how in small ruminants.

At home, he manages a smallhold production of cattle and goats. According to Sir Edgar, he could not sustain an ideal number for pig farming due to the limited space.

Back in 2012, he volunteered to be the University delegate for the Animal Waste Management Utilization (AWMU) Course. Even without a formal experience in teaching, he was given the chance to participate the said training. With fourteen years of dedication to work, many have seen the potential of Edgar be a reliable technical person in the field.

“Hindi naman ako masyado maalam sa math pero kinaya naman” , he shares when asked about his experience on taking AWMU. The said course is a combination of theoretical and practical lessons on planning waste management facilities that requires more than the normal load of mathematical formulas.

Right after the two-week training, he was requested to lead and facilitate the construction of a biogas digester in Calapan. “Siguro kasi nakita nila kung paano ako gumawa noong nasa ITCPH kami, so ako yung nirequest” says Edgar. Without any hesitation, one of his classmates during the training entrusted the project to him.

Being a project consultant of the Agricultural Training Institute in Oriental Mindoro, paved the way for him to practice his learnings from the ITCPH.

During the site validation of the 350 sow-level commercial farm in Calapan, he knew that major changes will be done. “Kasi dapat mauna yung plano sa waste management at biogas bago itayo ang piggery” explains Sir Edgar. Appropriate adjustments and changes were made in the waste canal to enable proper flow of manure and liquid waste.

Upon the execution of plan, a Tubular Polyethylene Biogas Digesters (TPED) was installed. TPED is simple, economically viable and easy to install that suits both commercial and smallhold pig production. The said technology along with the other types of biogas digesters can provide steady supply of fuel for cooking, cutting LPG expenses.

Edgar’s first consultancy was a success. He was privileged enough to accept more projects, big or small. “Hindi po ako nagdadalwang-isip na tumanggap ng consultancies kasi gusto ko pa po matuto” Sir Edgar added.

Beside the actual planning and designing of waste management facilities, Edgar did not stop to go into other forms of learning such as research. He is also proud to narrate that he together with his team are the ones who dig the land in preparation to the construction of the biogas digester.

After receiving additional knowledge and skills from this type of work, he was able to put into use the dome-type waste management facility in the Campus. A dome-shaped digester is immovable with rigid gas-holder and a displacement pit. The gas is stored in the upper part of the digester. When gas production commences, the slurry is displaced into the compensating tank. Today, the University and nearby houses enjoy the pleasure of using free gas in the kitchen.

“Natutuwa ang mga farmers na nakakausap ko kasi bakit daw ako maalam sa biogas, sabi ko naman galing ako ng ITCPH” Edgar narrates.

Through the years, Sir Edgar happily shares his experiences to farmers and students in the technology of converting animal manure into useful resources. Even without a teaching load in the University, he showcases the proper utilization of waste during the practical classes of students in animal science.

Appreciating the context of animal waste management, his skills were further enhanced. “Nung nag-training ako dati sa ITCPH, mababa pa yung aking item pero after nung training, natulungan ako nitong ma-promote” said Edgar. Later on, he was advised to take-up a National Certificate (NC) II in teaching methodology so that he can join the pool of trainers in OMSU.

In 2021, the extension services of the University requested him to design a waste facility for a 200 sow-level farm in Mindoro. “Dito naman, ibang style naman yung ginawa ko na may design ako sa ilalim para umahon yung dumi sa ilalim ng catchment” explains Edgar. The said project was put into operation to solve the undesirable smell coming from the piggery.

Sir Edgar is a proud ITCPH alumnus. He helps the people realize that the improper disposal of animal waste is toxic to the land, that ammonia affects the environment, and that proper utilization of waste is significant to turn the said problems into a valuable one.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Brainy Vren: Fulfilling the VetMed Practice in the Academe

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT

“Pag animals lang lagi yung kaharap, parang kulang yung fulfillment ko sa ginagawa ko” – Doc Vren.

Working the job of a university veterinarian for two years, Vren took the opportunity to be an affiliate instructor. The excitement of interacting with students brought this doctor into the teaching field, not to mention her coming from a family of educators.

Four years later, she became a full-time instructor at the University of Southern Mindanao, College of Veterinary Medicine. Upon entering the university as a teacher, she was tasked to deliver subjects in swine production.

Thirsty for more knowledge for her students, Doc Vren was clear that she needed to upgrade what she already knew. Apart from being a wide reader and skilled doctor, Vren followed the advice of colleagues to go to the ITCPH for a training. “Marami na sa mga kasamahan ko, nag-training na sa ITCPH, kaya sinubukan ko” , shares Doc Vren.

Excited to see why many are making a fuss about the Center, Dr. Vrenelie Flores attended the swine artificial insemination course for trainers in 2014. True enough, the training center exceeded her expectations. As a result, she was able to establish an AI Center at the University. However, due to a change of administration, the project did not prosper.

The following year, Doc Vren once again went to the ITCPH for the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry. “Gusto ko talaga yung simple yet very detailed procedure dito” , says Doc Vren.

As an extension coordinator now at the university, activities focused on swine were easier to translate for students and farmers, as an effect of her practical activities at the Center’s training farm.

Even holding several subjects in swine production before taking the NTCPH course, Doc Vren admitted that a lot of learnings was still gained. Specifically, the so-called feeding scheme, the temperature requirement according to the type of pens and buildings, the types of housing facility, farm-to-farm distance, and foot bath system were known.

Adding to her knowledge and skills in maintaining a farm, Doc Vren was able to improve their current collage syllabus and improve her style of teaching. Developing confidence and credibility in delivering topics related to swine, private companies invite her as their resource person. Catering to various types of audiences, easy-to-understand brochures were prepared, from the ITCPH module and practical classes.

With the current situation and limited face-to-face interaction with students, Doc Vren uploads actual demonstration of farm activities and makes sure that students understand farm administration in an online setting.

“Iba yung dating sa estudynate pag may background talaga sa tinuturo at masasabi ko na malayo ang narating ko sa ITCPH kasi lahat na-experience ko talaga” , Doc Vren adds. The said course was participated for two months of intensive theoretical and hands-on classes.

According to Doc Vren, providing recommendations to farmers and students was made easier through the itcph way of training. “Even sa pag explain ng sa housing, madali mapicture ng estudyante kasi kaya ko iguhit kung ano yung sinasabi ko” , she adds.

Doc Vren considers her passion for sharing knowledge a fulfillment of her career. “This has a big effect that I can impart these to future doctors” , she explained.

This veterinarian, that was once a university vet, and made her way to the faculty, has been enjoying her career path as an associate professor and an extension coordinator.

Highlighting their extension works today is the ‘Livestock and Poultry Production Assistance for Development’ (LIPAD), which provides technical assistance to a community of 15 animal raisers. Instructors and students visit hog-raising communities and help smallhold farm owners improve their management practices, biosecurity, breeding, and prevent the occurrence of diseases.

During her first year upon attending the NTCPH, Doc Vren has earned a total of 30 points in extension services that helped her in her securing promotions.

Only this year, Doc Vren has also joined the Center’s online courses on swine production medicine course and feednovation. She is currently planning to experiment on fodder hydroponics using the university’s variety of white and yellow corn.

When speaking with farmers, Doc Vren usually disagrees with the thinking of pig farming referred to as a piggy bank. “It’s not a piggy bank, it’s a time deposit because it has interest and profit through time” , she stresses.

Every time she is invited as a speaker, this Vet always emphasizes that no matter how small a farm may be, it should be sustainable and profitable.

Through continuous linkages and involvement she gets from being an instructor and extension coordinator, Doc Vren looks forward to learning not just by books, but with actual experiences with the different walks of life she encounters.

“Wala man lang ako na establish na project, I consider it a success seeing my students become professionals in this field” , Doc Vren proudly shares.

Today, Doc Vren enjoys the fulfilling life of a vetmed practitioner while devoting her time both in the academe and extension works, in Kabakalan, North Cotobato.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Free-Ranging White Pigs in Botolan Zambales

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT

“Pinapanuod ko lang ang ITCPH sa youtube, tapos nagustuhan ko kasi laymans term yung kanilang mga videos” , says Lester.

According to the 26-year old Lester D. Pilar of Botolan, Zambales, during his research on how to grow pigs, the ITCPH appears in any subject he searches, so he began to watch technical videos uploaded on youtube.

Lester needed to take-over his grandpa’s boar-for-hire business in 2019. Lolo Luis’ boar-for-hire is well-known in their area since it has been in the swine industry for more than 50 years already. “Yung sa lolo ko talaga yung naging standard nila pagdating sa boar service, kaya kilala talaga siya dito sa amin” , Lester stressed.

With zero knowledge on how to grow hogs, except cleaning dung, and feeding animals, Lester was determined to succeed in pig farming.

In 2019 he started to maintain three largewhite and landrace boars, a sow, and a few finishers. As a wide reader and committed to keeping his promise to his Lolo, Lester joined the Sustainable Pig Farming Course at the ITCPH. “Saktong-sakto na nung nag-tingin ako ng trainings, yung SPF yung akma sa schedule ko that time, at yun din yung gusto ko na gawin sa farm” , Lester narrated. The said course involves sustainable and alternative ways of native pig production.

“Wala akong pambili ng kulungan at feeds kaya natural talaga yung gusto kong maging approach” , adds Lester. In one hectare of land, partitions for gilts, sows, farrowing sows, piglets, and finishers can be seen. Animals are free-ranged and many nipa huts serve as shade.

“Binalik ko lang sa natural, kasi kaya pala ngumu-nguso yung baboy sa pader ng pen kasi behavior pala nila yun na nagdudukal bago sila manganak” , shares Lester.

As an advocate of natural farming, he also invested his time in preparing a corn plantation to minimize feed cost. “Kung ano yung pinapakain ko sa baka at kambing, yun din ang pinapakain ko sa baboy” , Lester added. He prepares silage using raw materials such as maize including its stems and leaves, napier grass, and kangkong. For maize, he shortens the harvest period from 120 to 60-90 days to get the required nutrients from the plant. As a practice, animals are fed twice a day.

After attending the SPF course, he knew that white molds are good bacteria so he fermented the additional harvest of maize and other greens. “Medyo nahirapan ako para sa alternative ng pre-starter feeds pero nag-base pa rin ako sa nutrient requirement nila” , Lester emphasized.

Heavily influenced by the SPF course, Lester found the use of concoctions very helpful in the prevention of diseases and production of a carcass. The lactic acid bacteria serum (LABS) which was popularized by the ITCPH was very effective in keeping his animals healthy. Meanwhile, he uses the oriental herbal nutrient (OHN) in rare cases of sick pigs. The fermented fruit juice (FPJ) serves as a growth enhancer, while the fermented plant juice (FPJ) is being fed to finishers before market resulting in a marbling taste of meat.

In terms of meat quality, it is tender, juicy, and reddish in color. “Nung minsan napagkamalan nung sinusplayan ko sa Manila na beef yung binigay ko kasi yung kulay niya iba talaga sa pork, malapit na sa pagiging beef” , says Lester.

In 2020, Lester managed to grow his grandpa’s business to a 200-sow level farm. With the pandemic in the spotlight, he pursued to participate in the online courses being offered by the Center. He was also able to establish a meat shop at their home. According to him, a minimum of two finishers are slaughtered and sold daily.

However, this successful newbie faced a big challenge this year when his farm got infected with African swine fever (ASF). Currently, (December 2021), he operates a 50-sow level farm through natural farming.

Due to learnings and insights from the effect of ASF, Lester plans to practice swine artificial insemination, through a tailor-made course from the ITCPH. Though prominent for their boar-for-hire service, Lester is confident that their farm to be known for AI too.

With free-range production of hogs, Lester maintains a high farm performance of 10-12 parities, with 12 piglets born alive, and low mortality percentage of 3%. In terms of carcass weight, in 5 to 6 month-time since birth, a market weight of 100kg is attained. Lester uses a specially mixed grower ration that does not contain any genetically modified organisms.

Encouraged by the results of free-ranging pigs, Lester is positive that his venture to natural pig farming can take him afar.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Farm Administration Made Easier with Salazaris

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Few of the subjects included in the courses being offered in the Center deal with numbers. Many hog raisers and even extension workers are surprised to know that maintaining a herd requires formulas and basic computations.

In Pampanga, most of the smallhold pig farmers lack knowledge and do not give much attention on record keeping and proper heat detection. “Karamihan kasi sa mga nakasalamuha ko na magbababoy, hindi sila nagpa-practice ng heat detection or heat check kaya mataas talaga yung lost days ng mga alaga nila” , shares Joel.

From this, Joel knew that hog raisers need to be educated in farm administration. Farm administration is a systematic collection of data, working out, analyzing, and judging of farm technical data for a production period to attain a better management approach. Meaning, a farmer should keep accurate records and use formulas to get the individual and sow herd performance. From here, he analyzes the farm's technical performance and implements wise decisions to improve the performance of the animals, resulting in a higher level of production.

Mr. Joel Salazar, an alumnus of the ITCPH in 2016 has been familiar with pig husbandry since the late 1990s. As a graduate of animal science and been involved in various employment-related to farm and veterinary services, he was able to become an Instructor in Pampanga State Agricultural University.

Belonging to the academe, Joel managed to enroll in the Center’s National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry. “Matagal na akong may alam sa swine bago pa lang ako nag-aral sa ITCPH, pero mas marami pa rin akong natutunan na bago” , narrates Joel. After completing this two-month course, he then joins another Trainer’s Course, on swine artificial insemination.

After staying at ITCPH for some quiet time, Joel practiced being a resource person in various undertakings of the university in swine. Aside from this, he became a Project Officer-in-Charge in the university’s 20-sow level training farm and was promoted as a full-time instructor at PSAU.

Dedicated to joining the academe, he pursues a master's in agriculture and a doctorate in animal science - reproductive physiology. During his thesis, he focused on farm administration emphasizing the reproductive parameters such as sow index, piglets born alive, piglets weaned per litter, pre-weaning mortality percentage, piglets weaned per sow per year, and the non-productive days or lost days.

Working with an IT expert, Joel successfully developed an online system named SALAZAR IS - Sow Reproductive Analysis for Local Areas and Zones via Automated Recording Information System. According to Joel, around 90% of the content used in the system came from the learnings he gained at ITCPH.

Salazaris is a user-friendly web-based information system that provides a report on the reproductive performance and disorder of local hog farms. “Yung farmer kailangan niya lang maglagay ng farm data, then automatic lalabas yung farm performance, and maha-highlight yung parameters na hindi niya na-meet base sa farm targets na naka-set” , explains Joel.

The good thing about this is that it directly generates farm data and informs the LGU of the current situation of smallhold farms in the area. The system also includes the causes and management for reproductive disorders brought by physiological and environmental factors like abortion, repeat services, high mortality percentage, low litter size, mummification and stillbirths to help farmers take immediate action, eliminate wrong practices, and apply appropriate decisions and adjustments.

Currently, the Municipality of Mexico has adopted the system and found it helpful in the generation of local farm data. However, due to the pandemic and outbreak of ASF, the system did not reach its full implementation yet.

Since cases of CoViD-19 and ASF have been slowing down, Joel is optimistic for LGUs to utilize the readily available web-based information system. This was also presented in an international congress and was copyright registered in the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPhil).

Apart from this, this instructor also facilitated a group of BSIT students in generating a web-based evaluation and record-keeping of sow reproductive performance and automated analysis and evaluation of finisher operation and profitability, which was also presented at ITCPH.

Fulfilling the life of an extension worker, he is also an accredited TESDA trainer and assessor in animal production NCII in swine. Joel enjoys his day-to-day work in the academe and field while keeping his home warm and joyful with his family.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Knowledge and Passion for Swine: Gladys’ Daily Routine

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

A part-time teacher finds her way in the government service upon earning years of service in a private agriculture school.

“Nagsimula akong JO sa serbisyo pero napagkatiwalaan naman akong makapag-aral sa isang international agency, at yun yung naging simula para mas makilala ko ang sarili ko” – Gladys.

Before attending trainings at the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry, Gladys has already on-hand experiences and actual encounter to hogs. Overall, her skills were improved in farm management and artificial insemination.

Currently employed under the research division of the Department of Drug administration through oral suspension. Ms. Gladys’ performing swine AI. Agriculture Region IX, Ms. Gladys Marie D. Caray grabs every opportunity to further develop her expertise in swine and poultry. So when her immediate supervisor recommended the ITCPH for specialized trainings in pig production, Gladys did not hesitate to travel to South Luzon.

“Parang school talaga ang ITCPH, talagang skilled ang mga estudyante pag lumabas” , says Gladys when asked about her stay in Lipa, Batangas.

Starting her admiration for this was the National Trainer’s Course on Pig Husbandry in 2016. Learning pig production and extension for more than two months at ITCPH prepared Gladys on the expectations from her line of work. Assigned in a 30-sow level farm, 60% of her time is devoted to research whereas the remaining 40% goes to farm and field activities. A good balance to keep her shape, and mind sharp.

Excited to apply her new learnings, she managed to have their swine housing facility renovated under the National Livestock Program. Her proposal amounting to P300,000 was approved and put into action.

Meanwhile, as an alumnus of the NTCPH, she was given a chance to be an assistant to the assessor during evaluation under the TESDA program. Soon she was also designated as an evaluator to swine project proposal in her office.

“Yung actual, maalam talaga ako, pero yung technicality, yun yung kulang”, Gladys shares. Since her supervisor believed in her capability to deliver what is expected from her, she was given the chance to be trained the itcph way.

So the same year, she took the National Trainer’s Course on Artificial Insemination and paved the way to be more passionate about pig production.

Being in-charge of their AI laboratory, Gladys initiated a renovation for it and procured a microscope with a screen monitor to check the quality of semen. The same year (2019), her proposal for additional equipment was also approved and enabled the latest technology on pregnancy diagnosis be available through a scanner and doppler.

According to Gladys, their AI laboratory remains to be the only AI center in the whole region. From the usual purpose of supplying fresh boar semen for their farm, it also became an income generating project (IGP) of the agency. In a week, around 50 doses of processed boar semen are being sold to local pig farmers in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Aside from working on various researches and trials, Gladys serves as the boar trainer, semen collector, evaluator and processor. She enjoys her mornings with a largewhite and white duroc to keep the AI laboratory in function.

Acting as a resource person to related topics in swine also keeps Gladys in a hectic schedule. Trainings are also conducted for AI technicians, students, and walk-ins, as she is never greedy to share her learnings and skills from the ITCPH.

“Personally dahil sa trainings na ito, mas naging relatable sa mga ginagawa kong research, hindi lang sa production, pero yung sa hayop mismo” , adds Gladys. Equipped with deeper understanding in the hows and whys in swine helped her to be a confident extension worker. “Alam ko lahat ng sinasabe ko pag nagtuturo kasi base lahat sa aktwal kong karanasan hindi puro basa” she emphasized.

After attending trainings at the Center, she was given a permanent position in the government.

“Napaka overwhelming nung mga course, at sinubukan ko talaga lahat ng natutunan ko duon, para maiaapply ko kagad at maitruo sa iba” she ends.

Heavily involved in research and farm activities, Gladys continues to inspire more women in agriculture.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Eggs as Add-on to Business, Why Not?

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

“Noong nakita ko sa ITCPH na pwede pala pagandahin ang kulay ng itlog, at saktong maglalabas ng manok yung kaibigan ko, nag try na akong mag-alaga”.

Maila, a woman farmer in Ibaan, Batangas, has been heavily involved in farming since the '90s. Mainly focused on sugarcane, coffee, and pepper production, this lady turned to be an integrated farm owner through continuous learnings and a bunch of friends rooting for agriculture and livestock.

Knew and attended trainings at ITCPH in the early 2000s, she became more inquisitive about the science of growing pigs. Among the courses she participated in were Basic Pig Husbandry, Ethnoveterinary Medicine, Green Pigs, and Free-Range Chicken Production. The importance of agriculture is not new to Maila since she holds a degree in Agribusiness Management at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Laguna.

Ms. Maila Vilela-Toreja's farm in Ibaan, is an accredited Learning Site (LS) of the Agricultural Training Institute – Region IVA Training Center since 2016. Stables and greens can be seen in the 2 ha of land. Among which are fruit-bearing trees, coffee, pepper, vanilla, native pigs, native chickens, and crossbred ducks.

During the pandemic, Maila eventually had the time to enhance her farm since receiving visitors is prohibited due to CoViD-19 restrictions. “Dahil bawal tumanggap ng bisita noon, I grabbed the opportunity para makapag-try ng pag-aalaga ng manok” , shares Maila.

Only this year (2021), Maila managed to start and grow her business in layer production through free-ranging chickens. “Gusto ko gawing negosyo yung pag-mamanok, kasi yung mga pinsan ko, nagluluwas ng itlog” . Making it happen, this witty farmer tries to enterprise in free-range chicken production since she has already acquired basic knowledge on this from the ITCPH.

From her fifty heads of chickens as a start-up, she now maintains a herd of 250 heads of Dekalb brown. Dekalb Brown are champion egg layers producing dark brown eggs.

Among her best practices in growing chickens in the most natural way is the use of probiotics or effective microorganisms, no hormones or any kind of antibiotics are injected into the animals, forages such as madre de agua, insulin plant, indigo, talinum, grass cuttings, oregano, turmeric and the trunk of a banana tree serve as a healthy snack.

In terms of housing, she maintains three batches of the chicken facility made of bamboo, recycled rabbit cages as nesting boxes, recycled roofing materials, steelematting, and range net for enclosure. Weekly rotation of ranging area has been a common practice too, to help maintain a field of grasses. Rice hull, carbonized rice-hull, and lime are regularly placed in the housing to omit the bad smell from the chicken manure. Effective microorganisms are also sprayed regularly in the beddings. Improvised curtains are also prepared, to cover the nesting area of hens during nighttime.

These practices allow birds to have full access to vegetation and sunlight, which is closest to their natural behavior.

“Yung mga manok namin, sa gitna sila ng kapihan namin nakalagay, so malamig yung kanilang area” , Maila adds.

Her journey in free-range chicken production was not a success at the beginning. It was a learning experience for Maila from merely the purchase of chicks, up to feeding, and ranging. “Nung una kasi mga sisiw yung binili ko, pero mataas yung naging mortality, so ang nangyari, for our consumption lang, tapos may mga konting naiaalok sa iba” , says Maila. Receiving positive feedback from friends and relatives pushed Maila to invest in another batch of hens.

This time, ready-to-lay Dekalb brown were purchased. Currently, she manages to sell her produce through social media. “Sabi nila, legit daw na free-range yung itlog na binebenta ko, dahil kitang-kita sa ganda ng kulay nung pula ng itlog ” she added.

Aside from selling online, she also educates her clients on the importance of free-ranging chickens. “Akala kasi nila basta brown yung shell ng itlog, free-range na kaagad yon” , narrates Maila. Usually, white hens produce white eggs, while brown chickens lay brown eggs. The type of production does not affect the color of an eggshell.

As an active women farmer, Maila has also encouraged some of her friends and other farms in Cavite and Ibaan to pursue this kind of venture. Not only does it add to their source of income, but local food production has always been a big concern for them.

“Nakakatuwa kasi halos lahat nasubukan ko nang kuhanin from the backyard. Yung itlog galing samin, ung pork, kaya rin naman i-produce, dati may palayan din kami” , Maila proudly shares.

According to Maila, the return of investment can be seen in three-months-time. With her existing practices and management, a profit of P2.00 – 3.00 per egg can be accumulated depending on the prevailing feed cost.

As for advice to newbies, she always tell that a farmer should open the door to new learnings and technologies because farming is an ever-changing cycle. The cycle may be the same, but the management improves over time.

“If magsisimula sila ng free-range chicken production, kailangan unahin talaga yung pagtatanim ng forages, at the same time, inaaral kung ano yung tamang pag-aalaga ng manok” , she recommends. Today, she experiments on black soldier fly larvae as an alternative source of protein feeds to chickens. Truly, learning is a continuous process.

In 2021, Maila became one of the shortlisted candidates of the 'Women of the Future, Mentor Category in Southeast Asia.

Agriculture interests Maila for many reasons. But beyond her achievements in farming, she advocates for woman empowerment and involvement in livestock.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

Sailing Away to Become a Better Farmer: Jon’s Success in Pig Farming

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

“Pinatern ko lahat ng ginagawa sa farm tulad sa mga nauna kong trabaho sa pabrika at barko” – Mr. Jonathan Maret G. Talag of Dasmariñas, Cavite.

Jon is a licensed marine engineer and has been in the domestic trade for three years until he pursued agriculture as a hobby and later as a main source of income. He eventually had to take over what his father has started since both of his siblings have decided to keep up with their chosen career.

It all begun upon a land acquisition in San Pascual, Batangas that kept his dad extra busy from maintaining fruit-bearing trees. Until one day,
Jon was surprised to see his dad raising pigs.

“Nagulat ako kasi meron na kaagad mga baboy e wala naman kaming kaalam-alam sa ganon” Jon shares. In a 400 sqm pig farm lies the 25 duroc breed of finishers which they expected to be good gilts. As for the experienced pig farmers, all would agree that a duroc breed is found to be aggressive and does not possess a good mothering ability for piglets.

Upon taking the basic course on pig husbandry in 2019, this newbie was able to restructure their pig farm into a 22 sow-level farm with F1 landrace and large white gilts sourced from a reputable breeder farm. “Akala ko madali lang kase papakainin tapos lalaki na tapos benta, pero hindi pala” , says Jon.

Equipped with proper knowledge and skills from the training, Jon was confident to keep the farm. He was a hands-on farm owner and applies the ITCPH way of growing pigs.

“Gusto ko maging analytical ang approach. Hindi pwede yung dumedepende sa alam ng iba, dapat vinavalidate rin” , Jon emphasized.

He trained his animal caretaker from dry cleaning up to injection techniques, feeding, and management of sows and piglets. Jon makes sure the farm produces quality carcass and keeps an eye to the farm technical targets. In terms of finisher production, the 650 average daily gain (ADG) results to two-week earlier market of hogs. Other indicators for progress were improvements seen in the litter index from 1.0 to 2.0, a decline in the pre-weaning mortality of 12% to 2%, and a piglets born alive (PBA) of 15. Meanwhile, the use of records and application of disinfection to pens were also found to be useful. “Dati hindi namin iniintindi yung mga pagrerecord, pero ngayon meron kaming logbook, whiteboard, at hiwalay na record sa office” , he proudly shares.

Jon adds that his learnings from the Center took effect after a year, with 80% return of investment and 40% profit per sow. Aside from commercial pigs, he also maintains goat and native pig production. Proper waste disposal was also put into practice. A biogas digester 70 meters away from the kitchen was made available and supplies free gas for cooking purposes. According to Jon, waste management is a social responsibility of every pig farmer.

Amazed with the technical knowledge and assistance from the Center, Jon adopted the technology of artificial insemination. He purchases at least four doses of processed boar semen from ITCPH through a courier.

With African swine fever (ASF) around the corner, Jon has already implemented strict biosecurity measures in their piggery. Perimeter fence, disinfection for vehicles and delivery trucks, shower room and foot wear are just some of his guards to avoid the entry of any disease infection.

Mr. Talag was a seaman turned agripreneur, who enjoyed pig farming through its scientific and analytic approach of doing.

Who would have thought that a high-earned individual would venture in swine, upon knowing nothing from the basics of pig farming?

Jon’s experiences from his previous jobs in the factory and ship enabled him practice farming in a systematic manner. He sailed away from his usual route and managed to find passion and love for farming through pig raising.

There is no definite map to find success, but there can be a clear direction on how to become an ace either on a sea or in a pig farm.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing

From Rice Fields to Pig Farms: Building Expertise on Pig Pens and Biogas Digesters

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

“Nagkaroon ako ng ideya na gayahin yung kapwa magsasaka ko na nagbebenta ng baboy, at ang kanyang pinagbilhan ay ginagamit naman sa palayan” - Tatay Manny.

This marked Mr. Manuel Pasa Jr.'s early beginnings in pig farming. However, growing hogs did not seem an easy route for him, as good results were not seen. With a lack of understanding and knowledge in swine production, Tay Manny pursued trainings and seminars related to pig production. This led to keeping a farrow-to-finish production from 1986 to 2010.

Raised in the Bicol region, rice planting was seen to be the main source of income for many farmers. In terms of pig production, large white and landrace breeds are commonly used in producing finishers whereas housing facilities are usually built the traditional way.

After high school, Tay Manny took short courses on electronics and industrial technology through earning from farming. For more than 30 years, he has gained technical knowledge and skills through his work experiences in different farms, (crops, poultry, cattle, swine) in his region.

Apparently, during one of Farmer’s Lakbay Aral or expository trips, Tay Manny became interested to taking-up courses at the ITCPH. It was in 1998 when he first joined a Farmer’s Leader’s Course at the Center. “Wala talaga akong kaalam-alam sa pagbababuyan noong sumubok ako mag-alaga ng baboy kasi nawili lang ako sa aking kasamahan na may extrang kita sa pagbebenta ng baboy” , he shares. According to Tay Manny, proper training is a must for someone to be successful in pig production.

After a long time, Tay Manny pursued pig farming and took several courses in 2018, and more the next year. Familiar with many farming practices already, he made sure to have the same know-how in swine production through participating in three National Trainer's Courses on Pig Husbandry, Climate-Smart Farm Business School (Livestock), and on Animal Waste Management and Utilization.

Tay Manny, just like the staff, wears a smile every time you see him. You can see that he enjoys his learning experience at the Center. During his free time, he is fond of sketching pig housing designs and farm plans. Conversing with animal keepers and technical trainers made him more enthusiastic about how broad and scientific growing pigs can be. Of course, he also manages to spend some time reading technical books at the ITCPH library.

“Maganda sa ITCPH kasi kumpleto ung technical na kaalaman, at the same time, lahat ng gamit, practical activities, and field trips na related sa kurso, andun na” , Tay Manny emphasized.

After participating to the mentioned courses, Tay Manny started to practice drafting pig housing designs, and preparing plans on building biogas digesters. “Dito ko nakita na kahit gaano kaganda o sementado yang pabahay sa pagbabuyan, kung mali naman ang pagkagawa, wala rin” , he narrates.

Proper housing facilities result in a higher level of production, while suitable waste management disposal and biogas digesters make an eco-friendly environment.

Meanwhile, in the execution of plans, Tay Manny encountered several challenges particularly in the location of the farm, and workers who do the physical work. According to him, setting-up biogas digesters is more tedious than designing pig pens.

Currently, he is in charge of developing a plan for an 80-sow level farm and the establishment of a biogas digester for a 50-sow level farm in Camarines Sur.

As a farm consultant to several areas within the region, he shares his acquired knowledge and skills both to smallhold, commercial farms, and private companies. “Yung ibang magbababoy, nasa bundok na talaga, remote areas, pero worth-it naman ang pagod kapag nakikita mon a Malaki yung naitutulong mo sa kanila” adds Tay Manny.

This experienced farmer-teacher is currently a farm manager in a piggery farm and learning site for agriculture. Also, an administrator in a farm that focuses on free-range chicken and cattle production. Aside from being an all-around farmer in livestock and poultry, he advocates the use of manure as fertilizer.

If he is to advise persons who would want to put up a piggery, he recommends starting it right. Meaning, proper housing facilities, and waste disposal should be in place, to produce high-performing and quality animals.

Through continuous application and overcoming problems in this type of specialization, Tay Manny builds his expertise and confidence in pig housing designs and biogas digesters, while providing extension services to individual and organized farmers in the remote areas of Camarines Sur.

#ITCPHway #LearningByDoing