Kapalong, Davao del Norte – To gear Farmer Leaders (FLs) and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in the Davao region with essential knowledge of organic poultry management, ATI-RTC XI conducted a Training on Organic Chicken Production at Umaverde Farm and Learning Center on May 19-23, 2025.

Climate change resilience, food safety, and value chain development were the three main areas focused during the five-day training. By enhancing the capacity of key stakeholders, this initiative aligns with national efforts to promote organic agriculture, strengthening the role of organic chicken farming in producing food that is environmentally sustainable, safe, and economically viable.

Thirty (30) FLs and AEWs who participated were selected based on their active engagement in poultry farming, leadership roles in farmer organizations, or responsibilities in providing technical assistance to farmers.

The increasing growth of chicken production in the region indicated a strong potential for poultry farming expansion, however, organic chicken production remains a relatively untapped opportunity.

Resource Persons for the training were Mr. Leo Jim Saludo, Assessor from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority XI, and Mr. Jerry Carpentero, CPA, Planning Officer II from ATI-RTC XI.

Topics discussed were the Fundamentals of Organic Chicken Production, Selection of Suitable Local Chicken Breeds & Housing Systems, Organic Feed and Water Management, Health and Disease Management in Organic Poultry, and Harvesting, Marketing, and Value Chain Development.