Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar had a quick visit to DA-PCC’s National Water Buffalo Gene Pool and Livestock Innovations and Biotechnology Complex today wherein he was briefed on the agency’s technologies and research initiatives.
Lilian Villamor, Senior Science Research Specialist, discussed the DA-PCC’s diverse animal genetic resources cryobank and conservation efforts while Dr. Gabriel Tubalinal presented the use of Quick Care pen-side DNA-based test kit for caprine arthritis encephalitis virus.
Meanwhile, Dr. Cyril Baltazar, Farm Superintendent II, toured him around the institutional herd and reported the animal inventory and milk production in the farm.
During his visit, Secretary Dar instructed DA-PCC to establish more breeding farms, expedite distribution of carabao modules, innovate, and intensify herd build up for higher milk production in order to contribute to the country’s increasing food requirements. He furthered that the role of carabaos is still important in agriculture even with mechanization.
The agri chief was accompanied by DA-PCC OIC Executive Director Dr. Ronnie Domingo, Deputy Executive Director for Production and Research Dr. Claro Mingala, DA Central Luzon Regional Director Crispulo Bautista, and Assistant Secretary for Strategic Communications Noel Reyes.
(Photo and additional information from Sec. William Dar’s Official FB Page)
