DAVAO CITY – To deepen the participants’ competencies in managing dairy cattle herds and understanding the economic and health aspects of dairy farming, ATI-RTC XI successfully concluded Phase II of the Training on Dairy Cattle Farm Operation and Management at Macatabo Farm on June 2–4, 2025.
A total of 36 farmers from various Small Coconut Farmers' Associations across the Davao Region continued their participation, building on the foundational knowledge established during Phase I of the training.
This second leg of the ladderized training was conducted under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Program, in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the National Dairy Authority (NDA).
This training covered a series of topics and activities. Mr. Celeste N. Gallawan, PDO IV, served as a key resource person and tackled topics on Dairy Herd Care and Management, covering critical periods such as pregnancy, calving, and calf-cow management. His lecture emphasized best practices to ensure the health and productivity of dairy animals.
Dr. Rayan I. Ysulat of the NDA led the session on Dairy Herd Health Management, discussing the characteristics of healthy and unhealthy dairy cattle, common dairy diseases, and their corresponding preventive and control measures.
A key highlight of the event was the discussion on Body Condition Score, presented by Mr. Jesus Melchor Bertolpo. This was followed by a practical session where participants had the opportunity to observe the actual condition of the cattle on the farm. Later, they presented their findings during a plenary session, which helped to enhance their observational and analytical skills.
In addition, Ms. Raylyn Sanchez, PDO IV for Business and Development, handled the session on the Economics of Dairy Farming and Basic Record Keeping. Participants took part in a writeshop where they created sample farm records as a way of assessing and applying their learning.
The training was led by Engr. Chonna Vae A. Cañete, Project Officer, with the support of Ms. Cristine A. Perez, CFIDP Technical Staff, and Ms. Judy Ann Guitones, Administrative Staff from ATI-RTC XI.
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Contributor: Chonna Vae A. Cañete
