The Philippine Swine Industry stands as a cornerstone, contributing approximately 55% to the country's total Animal Industry. However, the emergence of African Swine Fever (ASF) dealt a severe blow, prompting the culling of over 300,000 pigs. Consequently, the growth rate of pork production plummeted by 20.8% in 2021, underscoring the profound impact of ASF on the industry's stability and output. Artificial Insemination (AI) is a cost-effective and safe method for swine reproduction. By eliminating the need for breeder boars and minimizing health risks associated with physical contact, AI offers a promising solution for countering the effects of ASF and accelerating swine repopulation in the country.
The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) through Training Specialist Jeric L. Cabatac and Ms. Gia Joy B. Lusterio, organized the Training of Trainers (TOT) on Swine Artificial Insemination (AI). The said training, in active collaboration with the City Veterinary Office (CVO) of Malaybalay City, granted training participants access to their swine AI center facilities for hands-on activities. It also provided participants with the necessary knowledge and skills on various topics related to swine AI, including boar training, semen collection and evaluation, and determining the optimal time for insemination. The training aimed to empower the participants, equipping them with pertinent tools and information to excel in their respective roles in the livestock industry in the region.
Livestock Inspector II Annable C. Sia of CVO Malaybalay, along with Dr. Omar T. Cahanap, Livestock Production Veterinarian, and Mr. Cabatac, who is an Animal Science graduate, discussed the various aspects of Swine AI and related topics such as Breed Selection and Health Management. Retired Information Officer Maria Eloisa A. Akut, of the ATI-RTC X, led a session on Presentation Skills during the training proper. Given the focus on cascading information in participants' localities, they were also tasked with engaging in microteaching exercises to enhance their teaching abilities.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phile Rae M. Bonggo and Mr. John Ray C. Sagrado shared comprehensive instructions on effective boar management, covering techniques from junior to senior boar training. Their sessions also focused on identifying the optimal time for semen collection and ensuring proper transportation to the laboratory for semen evaluation. Given the novelty of the procedure for many participants, mastering the technique of holding and timing the boar's penis to produce semen required guidance from the trainers. With the trainers' support, participants devoted four days to practicing and refining their skills in semen collection, ultimately achieving mastery in this critical aspect of swine reproductive management.
As the primary output of the training, participants crafted and presented their re-entry plans regarding the AI program in their respective Local Government Units (LGUs). With guidance from the trainers, suggestions, and recommendations were incorporated into the participants' re-entry plans to enhance their effectiveness and feasibility.
A total of 28 participants (25 Agricultural Extension Workers and 3 Farmer Leaders) completed the Training of Trainers (TOT) on Swine Artificial Insemination (AI) held on April 1-12, 2024 at Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. (written and submitted by: Gia Joy B. Lusterio)
