Author: Rodolfo T. Valdez, Jr.

Eleven new artificial insemination (AI) technicians from three regions in Mindanao pledged their support in strengthening the genetic improvement of cows and carabaos after they officially completed the month-long basic training course on AI and pregnancy diagnosis in large ruminants held at the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at USM in Kabacan, Cotabato.

With the support and funding from the DA-National Dairy Authority-Southern Mindanao, the said training, held from May 6 to June 4, aimed to equip partner agencies with comprehensive technical expertise and practical skills essential for AI and PD services for large ruminants.

The participants coming from Region XI, Region XII, and BARMM undergo different sets of lectures and activities focusing on understanding the anatomy and physiology of female reproductive systems of large ruminants, animal nutrition, good husbandry practices, heat detection, semen quality assessment, recent advances in animal breeding, recto-vaginal method for artificial insemination, and the significance of artificial insemination for farmer-clients.

“After this training, you will be well-prepared as effective AI technicians in the field. Always remember that with AI, we can optimize breeding cycles and ultimately boost milk production, leading to the satisfaction of our clients, the Filipino farmers,” DA-PCC at USM Center Director Geoffray R. Atok said.

Moreover, DA-NDA Southern Mindanao Department Chair Marlon C. Flores, represented by AI coordinator Greg Lapura, highlighted the engagement of new AI technicians in the Unified National Artificial Insemination Program (UNAIP) for large ruminants, which provides strategic direction in the current AI delivery system efforts of the Department of Agriculture as they will be part of undertakings of the national livestock agencies (NLAs), namely the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), NDA, PCC, and DA Regional Field Offices (DA-RFO), as collaborators in carrying out efficient and effective livestock breeding programs using AI technology.

As AI serves as one of the banner programs of the agency, the DA-PCC at USM continues to expand its engagement with different agencies and local government units to produce animals with better productivity for milk and meat.

Indian embassy chargé d’affaires Dr. Sadre Alam recently visited the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Carabao Center National Headquarters and Gene Pool in an effort to explore mutually beneficial collaborations aimed at strengthening India-Philippines relations.

During the visit, Deputy Executive Director for Research and Development Dr. Claro N. Mingala and OIC-Chief Knowledge Management Division Rowena S. Galang briefed Dr. Alam on DA-PCC’s programs, services, and mandate. They highlighted the nationwide milk feeding efforts, which benefit a significant number of children and carapreneurs, and provided an overview of key initiatives such as the Carabao-based Enterprise Development Program (CBED) and the Coconut-Carabao Development Project, the latter funded by Senator Cynthia Villar.

Dr. Alam’s visit also included a stop at the National Livestock Cryobank, where he was warmly welcomed by Dr. Liza Battad, Executive Director of DA-PCC. Dr. Battad and Aivhie Jhoy Cuanang, Science Research Specialist I, showcased the research facilities and discussed the cryobank’s role in conserving diverse animal genetic resources, emphasizing DA-PCC’s commitment to livestock preservation and enhancement.

The itinerary also featured a quick tour of the gene pool and a visit to Milka Krem, the DA-PCC’s dairy products outlet. Dr. Alam and his family purchased various DA-PCC products, with the ambassador noting his family’s appreciation for the items and mentioning that drinking milk is a popular tradition in India.

Expressing keen interest in future collaborations, Dr. Alam offered both technical and financial assistance to support DA-PCC’s initiatives marking a positive step towards enhancing agricultural and scientific ties between India and the Philippines.

An increase in local dairy stocks and milk production in Western Mindanao regions is anticipated after the turnover ceremony of newly constructed institutional herd facilities for the Dairy Herd Buildup Program (DHBP) on May 24, 2024, at the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Mindanao Livestock Production Center (DA-PCC at MLPC) in Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte.

The DHBP aims to revolutionize the local dairy industry, ushering in a new era of increased local dairy stocks and milk production. It is funded by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, under the dedicated leadership of Senator Cynthia A. Villar.

“It is by God’s grace that we had a systematic leader, and by God’s grace that He blessed us with the right construction company. This project is an icon of transformation to change the lives of the cooperatives that depend on us,” said Dr. Liza Battad, DA-PCC’s executive director.

The facility, with a total cost of PHP10,530,648.41, is capable of housing 300 crossbred animals. The animals purchased will be raised on the institutional farm. Artificial insemination will be used to produce offspring with a superior genetic makeup. The pregnant and bred animals will then be supplied to carabao raisers, mostly in Carabao-based Business Improvement Network (CBIN) locations.

Aside from the construction of facilities, the program also involves pasture establishment to ensure a consistent supply of forages and composting for zero waste management.

The event was graced by Dr. Caro B. Salces, DA-PCC’s deputy executive director, Dr. Cecelio G. Velez, DA-PCC at MLPC center director, Raymond Taopa, proprietor of Altapil Construction and Supply, Engr. Rolando Maghanoy, a representative from the local government of Kalawit, DA-PCC staff, conduit cooperatives managers, members, and farmers.

The DA-Philippine Center at University of Southern Mindanao (DA-PCC at USM) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development XII (DSWD-XII) together with other government agencies turned over dairy buffaloes to the Dagupan Sustainable Livelihood Program Association under the Zero Hunger project on May 27 in Dagupan, Kabacan, Cotabato.

Under the banner of “Sulong Kabuhayan tungo sa Pagyabong,” the entrustment of dairy buffaloes is one of the components of the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). This initiative aims to enhance the socio-economic status of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries through capacity building. The goal is to sustain and expand their livelihoods beyond the five-year intervention of this community-based project.

Through the SLP and Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Program, DA-PCC at USM Center Director Geoffray R. Atok envisions the positive outcome of this first-ever dairy buffalo project in Kabacan, Cotabato.

“With the support from partner agencies committed to providing capacity-building and agriculture-related livelihood interventions, we are confident that we can improve the socio-economic conditions of this 4Ps-led association,” Director Atok said.

Prior to the entrustment, the Dagupan SLP group underwent a social preparation training that developed their personal and organizational acceptance and sense of co-ownership of the buffalo dairy project.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Government of Cotabato and the Local Government Unit of Kabacan affirmed their partnership by committing to providing animal health services and undertaking legislative efforts to ensure the success and sustainability of the project, enhancing both individual and collective engagement of Cotabateños.

The entrustment was witnessed by the Dagupan SLP association, representatives from DSWD XII and DA-PCC at USM, Cotabato Board Member Jonathan Tabara, Provincial AdBoard Member Albert Rivera, Kabacan Board Member Myra Dulay-Bade, and Brgy. Dagupan Officials

The DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC), along with nine other agencies under the Department of Agriculture (DA), showcased their programs and services during the three-day Philippine Livestock and Aquaculture Expo 2024 held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Under the theme “Harnessing Innovation and Technology for Sustainable Farm Development,” DA-PCC exhibited innovations for development during the event.

During the opening program on May 22, 2024, Honorable Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino and DA Under Secretary for Livestock, Deogracias Victor Savelliano, emphasized innovation as a key driver in advancing the livestock industry.

Highlighting innovation, the DA-PCC booth presented the agency’s three banner programs (Genetic Improvement Program, Research for Development, and Carabao-based Enterprise Development Program), products developed to increase farm productivity, the Dairy Roadmap for 2020-2030, and goals for the carabao industry.

Among the agency’s developed products aimed at increasing farm productivity and adoption rates of farm-based practices are A2 Choice, Buro Booster, eRS, VeriSire, QuickCare, and BlockMate.

The results of these efforts were packaged in the form of knowledge products such as magazines and newsletters for public consumption. These materials contain success stories of the agency’s assisted farmers and recent developments in research.

These significant achievements of the agency were presented during the livestock forum on May 22-23, 2023, by DA-PCC experts.

The Rosario Livestock and Agriculture Farming Cooperative (TRLAFCO), one of the assisted co-ops of the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (DA-PCC at UPLB), was honored with the Outstanding Livestock Cooperative award for its prowess and exceptional contributions to the local agriculture industry at the Livestock and Aquaculture Philippines Expo 2024 Recognition and Networking Night on May 22, 2024, held at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.

“It is truly a relentless effort to continue to grow and evolve, ensuring food security and fostering economic resilience. Your commitment to excellence and sustainability remains unmatched. We honor those who dedicated their lives to advancing the livestock industry,” remarked Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary for Livestock, Deogracias Victor Savellano, in his message.

USec. Savellano also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the continued growth and development of the livestock industry. He encouraged stakeholders to work together to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for sustainable development.

He then congratulated the awardees for exemplifying vision, hard work and dedication to overcome challenges and reach new heights. These contributions, he noted, are not only beneficial to their enterprises but also to the broader livestock sector and the nation as a whole.

Nominees for the esteemed Outstanding Livestock Cooperative award are evaluated based on specific criteria, including having a substantial number of membership in 2024, a minimum operational tenure of five years, and impactful contributions to livestock production.

Joseph Caguimbal, vice chairperson of the Board of Directors of TRLAFCO, emphasized the vast opportunities in dairy and carabao farming, especially with support from local government units and government agencies.
“We must seize and utilize these opportunities to expand our knowledge and skills to boost our income as farmers,” he added.

Moreover, he expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders including the DA-PCC family, Rosario Municipal Agriculturist Jane Libuit, other partners from the local and national government, and the TRLAFCO farmer-members and employees.

TRLAFCO, previously known as the Rosario Dairy Association (RODRA), transformed into a cooperative on September 13, 2019, building on a foundation laid in June 2012. With a membership surge from 29 to 122, including 86 active dairy producers, TRLAFCO has been demonstrating substantial industry impact for 12 years. The co-op’s notable achievements include producing 159,314.3 liters of milk and generating PHP27.3 million in sales in 2023 alone. The cooperative continues its success in 2024, producing 70,341.03 liters of milk and achieving PHP15.1 million in dairy product sales in the first four months.

TRLAFCO’s contributions have also been recognized with other prestigious awards, including the 2023 Magiting Co-op Achiever from the Provincial Cooperative, Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development Office (PCLEDO) Batangas, along with consecutive Outstanding Dairy Cooperative awards from the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) Annual National Carabao Conference in 2022 and 2023.

Furthermore, TRLAFCO has been actively serving as a milk supplier for the milk feeding program in collaboration with government agencies such as the DA-PCC, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Education (DepEd) under the Republic Act 11037, the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act of 2018. From 2019 to 2023, the co-op served 69,911 beneficiaries through this program.

TRLAFCO continues to be a model of diligence and dedication, which plays a vital role in contributing to the agricultural industry and livestock and dairy sectors in the Philippines.

PCCean researcher Dr. Lilian P. Villamor showcases the essence of “tatak PCC” on the international science stage by earning the esteemed Prof. Yoo Hang Kim Young Women Scientists Award-2024 from the Association of the Academies and Societies of Sciences in Asia (AASSA).

AASSA is a non-profit international organization with interests in science, technology, and innovation (STI). It aims to offer young women scientists early in their careers the opportunity to attend an AASSA-recognized international scientific conference or meeting, where they can present the results of their original research.

One of the qualifications established by AASSA was that the nominee should have experience presenting his/her original research at an internationally recognized scientific conference or have had his/her work accepted/published in international journals.

Dr. Villamor submitted the following research works: Genetic Divergence and Phylogenetic Relationship of Philippine Carabao (Bubalus bubalis) and Other Swamp Buffalo Populations in Neighboring Countries Revealed by the Mitochondrial DNA D-loop Region; Phylogenetic Relationship and Genetic Variation of Wild and Domesticated Water Buffaloes in Genus Bubalus Using Mitochondrial DNA D-loop Variation; and a Study on the Genetic Diversity of the Philippine Carabao Swamp Buffalo in the Philippines.

“I am motivated by my love for science and the inspiration I receive from my mentors in various fields of science. With my expertise in Agricultural Sciences, I hope to represent women in science and contribute to the mission of the AASSA. My goal is to make significant contributions to science and to specifically improve the Department of Agriculture, support livestock farmers, and help my fellow citizens in the country and beyond,” shared Dr. Villamor.

Since joining the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) in 2014, her primary responsibility has been to enhance the operational management of the Cryobank Unit. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, she was privileged to be assigned to draft the DA Administrative Order (AO) No. 31 Series of 2021, declaring the DA-PCC Cryobank as the National Livestock Cryobank (NLC), and the Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 04 Series of 2022, which provides the implementing guidelines for the NLC. She played a vital role in creating guidelines and optimizing laboratory protocols for the collection of animal genetic resources (AnGR), cryopreservation, data banking, access to AnGR, and information campaigns.

Dr. Villamor’s experience in biological sciences includes working in the DNA Analysis Laboratory (DAL) at the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) for nearly five years where she contributed to the establishment of genetic markers for forensic applications and gained an understanding of the diversity of Filipino populations. She was also involved in the HUGO Pan-Asian SNP Consortium, where their research findings mapped human genetic diversity in Asia, providing valuable insights for population studies in the Philippines and other countries.

She also expanded her knowledge in DNA barcoding and phylogenetic research in the field of Marine Science (Marine Biotechnology).

She also served as the principal investigator of the research team for the DA-Biotech project, which contributed to the unveiling of the genetic diversity of the Philippine Carabao (PC). The project also led to the identification of the Philippine Carabao in Calayan Island, Cagayan as a pure-type swamp buffalo, which resulted in the establishment of the carabao sanctuary.

Dr. Villamor is a Senior Science Research Specialist and the current head of the Cryobank Unit at the DA-PCC.

“Research outputs should have an impact to benefit livestock farmers and the industry. This involves a lot of consultations with researchers and farmers until we come up with laser-focus objectives to contribute worthwhile science that will help the farmers,” Dr. Villamor ended.

Fourteen new AI technicians from select provincial government and local government units in the Cordillera Administrative Region officially completed the basic course on artificial insemination and pregnancy diagnosis on large ruminants today at the ATI-RTC-CAR, BSU Compound, La Trinidad, Benguet, May 17.

The said training was initiated by the Department of Agriculture-CAR-Unified National Artificial Insemination Program (UNAIP), funded by the Agricultural Training Institute-Cordillera Administrative Region, and aims to increase the calf drop of large ruminants in the region.

As one of the agencies leading the AI initiatives, ATI-CAR has partnered with the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) to capacitate the participants on artificial insemination (AI) and pregnancy diagnosis (PD).

The DA-PCC at DMMMSU team has equipped them with theoretical and technical training on artificial insemination and pregnancy diagnosis, including its process, proper handling, and maintenance of equipment, familiarization with the female reproductive organs of carabaos, body scoring, management of common reproductive diseases and abnormalities, and best practices in AI.

AI Coordinator Reynaldo Paneda, together with the center and village-based AI technicians, spurred their field exposure to AI and PD after their deployment to the different sites of the service area of the center.
The month-long training commenced on April 22 and ended on May 15.

Miezel Coma, the only female AI technician in the batch, said that the discussions were insightful as they were based on experience and beneficial for their hands-on learning as trainees had their aha moments.

DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Director Vilma Gagni expressed her heartfelt gratitude for choosing the center for this collaboration. She hoped that the lessons learned by the technicians in this training would be shared with others, as learning is a never-ending cycle.

“In learning, we teach, and in teaching, we learn,” she said.
During today’s closing ceremony, the participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge in performing AI and PD.

Allan Guinobang, livestock coordinator and AI technician of the Municipal Agriculture Office in Lamut, pledges to increase the population of large ruminants in their municipality, citing a decrease in the number of carabaos due to slaughter, mostly females, and a scarcity of bulls.

With newly trained AI technicians and heroes in the livestock industry, they hope to contribute to the improvement of livestock production in Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province.

Twenty-four extension professionals (EPs) from Bohol support the vision of DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) to improve dairy buffalo production and the management of small-scale carabao farmers through the utilization of the Knowledge, Brokerage, Guidance, and Advisory Network (KBGAN) mobile apps–the iHealth and iFeed.

The KBGAN mobile applications are the products of the partnership between the DA-PCC, through its Knowledge Management Division (KMD), and the Grameen Foundation Philippines, known as the Extension and Advisory Services Information System (EASIS) in 2020. The partnership aims to modernize and improve the agency’s extension and advisory service delivery to its clientele.

DA Assistant Secretary for Ruminants, Benjamin Albarece, commended the innovative steps made by DA-PCC.

“We were still contemplating such a project, but DA-PCC is already in the implementation phase. I hope that the KBGAN mobile apps can be replicated to serve more livestock animals,” Asec Albarece said.

The DA-PCC, alongside the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)-VII and the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian of Bohol, built a strong collaboration to enhance the dairy production management capacity of local dairy buffalo farmers in Bohol.

ATI Region VII pledged the provision of 24 tablets for the training of EPs.
During the Training of Trainers (T o T) held at the ATI Regional Training Center VII in Cabawan District, Tagbilaran City, Bohol from May 7-9, 2024, participants engaged in intensive training and practical field testing. The DA-PCC team facilitated proper navigation and troubleshooting of basic issues encountered with the KBGAN mobile apps.

Subsequently, a hands-on activity demonstrating the application’s functionality took place at DA-PCC at Ubay Stock Farm.

The training also received positive feedback from the participants, citing how the mobile applications can aid the health issues of dairy carabaos in the region.

“Maganda at mahalaga ang mobile apps lalo na sa mga technicians dahil pag-open ng app ay andoon na lahat. Nakakapag-provide pa siya ng mga nutritional requirements at mga pamamaraan kung paano malulunasan ang sakit ng mga kalabaw,” shared Dr. Domino Bayron, a veterinarian from the OPV of Bohol.