Mansabay Alto, Lopez Jaena, MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL---In support of sustainable agriculture and rural development, the Training of Trainers (TOT) on Dairy Cattle Production and Management was successfully held from April 9 to 13, 2025, at Alman God’s Gift Foundation Inc., Mansabay Alto, Lopez Jaena, Misamis Occidental. Mr. Joebert D. Apdian, Technical Support Staff, and Mr. Javier P. Andalan, Senior Agriculturist of ATI-RTC X led the event.
The training, organized in partnership with the National Dairy Authority (NDA), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), brought together 26 participants, including Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and coconut farmers from four provinces. This activity is part of the ongoing effort under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) to enhance the capacity of farmers and field workers in integrating coconut farming with dairy production, thereby increasing productivity and income.
The five-day training offered a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical field demonstrations, tailored to address the real-world challenges faced by rural farmers in livestock and crop integration. Highlights included:
- CFIDP and Industry Updates:
Mr. Javier P. Andalan opened the training with a discussion on the Coconut Industry Situationer and the overall CFIDP strategy, emphasizing its role in economic revitalization and food security. - Technical Insights on Dairy Farming:
Mr. Joebert D. Apdian presented in-depth discussions on dairy cattle breeds, forage preservation, herd and health management, and the history and evolution of milk production. He handled additional sessions in place of NDA personnel and was commended by participants. - Hands-on Skills from the Field:
Ms. Nerea May L. Maghuyop, Founder and Farm Manager of Alman God’s Gift Foundation, delivered practical demonstrations on milk testing, mastitis detection, cleaning of milking equipment, and animal housing and comfort. Her approachable style and technical mastery earned her an outstanding evaluation from the participants.
Participants not only gained practical skills but also earned 11 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)—an added incentive for further professional growth.
Advancing Integration for Food Security
This training marks a significant step toward the Coconut-Dairy Integration Program, which aims to diversify income streams for coconut farmers while promoting local milk production to reduce import dependency. Field demonstrations at the host farm gave participants firsthand experience in applying best practices in dairy farming—many of which they plan to replicate in their own communities.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting a renewed motivation to pursue integrated farming systems and share their learnings with fellow farmers.
As the agriculture sector continues to face challenges such as climate change, market instability, and rising input costs, initiatives like this TOT empower our rural communities to adapt, innovate, and thrive.
With continued collaboration among ATI, PCA, NDA, and local partners, more trainings are expected to roll out in the coming months—helping build resilient and self-sustaining farming communities across the region. (Text and photos provided by: Joebert D. Apdian, TSS)
