The Department of Agriculture-National Livestock Program (DA-NLP), through the DA-Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 (DA-ATI-RTC 1), continues to allocate resources to address the gap in quality genetic material for large ruminants. In collaboration with the Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (PCC-DMMMSU) and LG Agri-Tourism TVET and Assessment Center Inc., the Center conducted a 30-day Basic Training Course on Artificial Insemination and Pregnancy Diagnosis for Large Ruminants.
A total of 17 participants, including livestock coordinators and AI technicians from various local government units in Region 1, successfully completed the course, held from September 23 to October 26, 2024, at the LG Agri-Tourism TVET and Assessment Center Inc. in Amlang, Rosario, La Union.
Throughout the 30 days, participants enhanced their knowledge and skills in reproductive management, enabling them to accurately identify the estrus period and the optimal timing for AI services in buffaloes to increase calf drop efficiency. This was achieved through a series of lectures, field demonstrations, and farm immersions across La Union and Pangasinan.
OIC Center Director Jayvee Bryan G. Carillo expressed optimism about the training program's potential impact, stating that the trainees will become a strong new force of artificial inseminators, contributing to the improvement of livestock genetic breeds.
The closing program was attended by PCC Science Research Specialist and AI Coordinator Mr. Raynaldo Paneda, LG Agritourism Center Owner Dr. Gaudelia Villanueva, other Village-Based AI Technicians (VBAIT), and support staff from the PCC.
Participants received semen field tanks, thawing jars, straw sheets, and sanitary sheaths from the PCC, as well as AI guns, semen straw cutters, universal forceps, and digital thermometers from DA-ATI-RTC 1. These additional inputs will help the participants to effectively perform artificial insemination on large ruminants, enhancing breeding efficiency and success rates.
Additionally, the training course was accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to provide 21 CPD points for Agriculture Professionals.
