DA-Philippine Carabao Center at the University of Southern Mindanao (DA-PCC at USM) and its host institution, USM, are enhancing their collaboration in the carabao upgrading program through the recently concluded basic training course in artificial insemination (AI) and pregnancy diagnosis in large ruminants on January 26, 2024.
DA-PCC at USM incoming Center Director Geoffray R. Atok welcomed 10 new AI technicians from Kabacan, including LGU-based and village-based technicians, as members of the extension arms of DA-PCC at USM. They will implement AI not only in Kabacan but also in its nearby municipalities.
“Let us make this initiative fruitful. Our goal is to establish a sustainable carabao value chain here in Kabacan. With your help as new AI technicians, we can materialize this vision,” Director Atok said.
In her message during the closing program, Dr. Mary Joy S. Cañolas, Director of the USM Extension Services Office, expressed gratitude towards DA-PCC at USM for continued support in providing information and other services to farmers and other clients to enable them to improve their quality of life.
Additionally, Dr. Ap Warren P. Adamat, the Extension Coordinator at USM-College of Veterinary Medicine, mentioned that the training is part of the university’s Farmer’s Field School project, aiming to use a technology delivery system to enhance farmers’ skills in swine production and AI. The technology delivery system supports the viability and profitability of large ruminant producers and the swine industry by providing the necessary skills and information.
“We’ll be doing a farmer-to-farmer radio broadcast after this training that addresses artificial insemination in large ruminants,” Dr. Adamat continued.
“Malaking tulong at hamon ang dala ng pagtatapos naming bilang AI technician. Mas lalawak ang aming serbisyo bilang agricultural technician para sa mga magsasaka sa bayan,” Irene John M. Nidoy, a newly trained LGU-based AI technician, said.
During the closing program of the activity, Kabacan Municipal Agriculturist Joseph A. Dela Cruz and Municipal Veterinarian Dr. Louise P. Mosquerra expressed their challenge and commitment to strengthening the carabao development program in the locality.
