To promote sustainable livestock farming and waste management practices, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) conducted the "Trash to Cash: Training on Animal Waste Management and Utilization for Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs), Swine Industry Recovery Project (SIRP) beneficiaries, and INSPIRE Program beneficiaries in Region XII. The training was held from March 19-21, 2025, at the AID Hall, ATI-RTC XII, Tantangan, South Cotabato.

OIC Center Director Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, Ph.D. opened the training with a message emphasizing the importance of properly managing INSPIRE Projects. He encouraged participants to maximize the potential of swine and other livestock waste by utilizing sustainable practices that can benefit their farms and the environment.

During the first day, Dr. Vic Laurence P. Oliva, Associate Professor III from the College of Agriculture - USM, Kabacan, served as resource person. He discussed environmentally-friendly pig production, options for animal waste management and utilization, and biogas production for small farms. Participants actively engaged in demonstrations, particularly in the use of methane purification and the analysis of nitrogen pH in organic fertilizers, comparing commercial soil mixes, chicken dung, swine manure, and compost.

During the second day, Mr. Errol Chris A. Laspiñas, Agriculturist I of ATI-RTC XII, led discussion on the production and application of Effective Microorganisms (EM) and Lactic Acid Bacteria Serum (LABS)—a sustainable solution to improve soil health and waste decomposition. Participants also learned about vermicomposting techniques and took part in hands-on activities to process LABS, further enhancing their knowledge of organic waste management.

This training provided valuable insights into turning waste into a profitable resource, empowering AEWs and livestock farmers with practical skills to improve farm sustainability.