The Swine Initiative Recovery Project (SIRP) beneficiaries from the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-South La Union Campus (DMMMSU-SLUC) conducted a benchmarking activity at the Agricultural Training Institute-International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ATI-ITCPH) in Lipa, Batangas, on January 23-24, 2025.
During the visit, DMMMSU personnel made a courtesy call to Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco, Director of ATI-ITCPH. Afterward, Engr. Jose Marie Cuasay, Training Specialist II of ATI-ITCPH briefly discussed the goals and design of the SIRP, emphasizing the significance of modernizing farm operations to improve productivity and sustainability. Also, Engr. Cuasay mentioned that the project focuses on revitalizing the Philippine swine industry through knowledge-sharing, modernizing infrastructure, and enhancing biosecurity and swine genetics.
The delegates from the DMMMSU-SLUC were able to visit and observe the constructed Innovative Pig Pen Design-a partnership with PUM Netherlands and ATI-ITCPH. The design showcases the lying, feeding, and dunging areas, as a part of the βWASTE-TO-ASSETβ project. It demonstrates the use of dry hog manure as fertilizer, ensuring minimal water use and effective solid and liquid waste management. The approach also promotes a healthier and more environmentally friendly farming system.
Through the benchmarking activity, the SIRP beneficiaries gained valuable knowledge on modern farming techniques, farm management practices, and biosecurity measures employed at ATI-ITCPH. It is expected that the insights gained from the activity will be applied to the newly approved 3,000,000.00 SIRP at DMMMSU-SLUC, ensuring its alignment with industry standards and best practices for a more effective and sustainable swine farming operation.
DMMMSU-SLUC is one of the SIRP beneficiaries of the DA-ATI-RTC 1 through the National Livestock Program.
