Twenty-six Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in Region 1 satisfactorily completed the month−long Basic Artificial Insemination Training conducted from February 19 to March 22, 2024, at the Department of Agriculture Ilocos Norte Research and Experiment Center (DA-INREC) in Brgy. Cali, Dingras, Ilocos Norte. They were recognized in a graduation ceremony held on March 25, 2024.
The training was conducted through the collaboration of the DA-Regional Field Office I (DA-RFO I), which provided funding and logistics support, and the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Mariano Marcos State University (DA-PCC at MMSU), which provided technical expertise extended by seasoned AI technicians and top performing village-based AI technicians.
In her message, Karen F. Paningbatan, Regional Livestock Focal of DA-RFO I, emphasized the responsibilities awaiting the AEWs post-training. She highlighted the importance of collaborating rather than competing with private village-based AI technicians in their roles. Paningbatan urged them to work hand in hand and enhance the livestock upgrading efforts that only a handful of VBAITs are equipped to perform. She also challenged them to broaden their perspectives and make significant contributions towards advancing the livestock sector within their provinces.
Joel Cabading, OIC Center Director of DA-PCC at MMSU, marked the training as a significant milestone in the careers of the attendees and encouraged them to apply their new knowledge within their local government units, despite the limitations they might encounter. He stressed the importance of continuing the partnership between the DA RFO I and the DA-PCC at MMSU to bridge training gaps, particularly the immediate provision of AI paraphernalia to the trainees. Cabading also committed to supporting future collaborations that could position the Dingras Breeding Station as a model training center in this part of the region.
The training participants included Livestock Inspectors (LIs), Provincial Artificial Insemination Coordinators (PAIC), Municipal Agriculturists (MA), and other DA RFO I staff.
Earlier this month, three female buffaloes were transferred to the DA RFO I from the DA-PCC at MMSU to be used as training animals and for other purposes.
The participants expressed their gratitude to both the DA RFO I and the DA-PCC at MMSU for coming up with this training, signifying their commitment to perform for the betterment of the livestock industry in their municipalities.
