Tantangan, South Cotabato – The Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) successfully concluded its 5-day Training on Animal Health Care and Management (AHCM) on May 23, 2025, at the ATI-RTC XII 4-H Training Hall. The training brought together 25 agricultural extension workers (AEWs), livestock technicians, and barangay animal health workers (BAHWs) from across Region XII, equipping them with essential skills in livestock management and disease prevention.
Throughout the training, participants gained practical experience in animal handling, medication, and biosecurity measures. Many expressed appreciation for the immersive and hands-on approach, describing it as both empowering and applicable to the realities of fieldwork in their communities.
Mr. Errol Chris A. Laspiñas, Agriculturist I and Livestock Focal Person of ATI-RTC XII, reaffirmed the center’s continued support to the livestock sector. The program closed with an inspiring message from Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, Officer-in-Charge Center Director of ATI-RTC XII. He underscored the urgency of robust animal health management in light of increasing threats such as African Swine Fever (ASF), Avian Influenza, and emerging zoonotic diseases like Glanders, which he noted is under observation in Siquijor based on his recent field visit.
In recognition of their successful completion of the course, each participant received a Certificate of Completion along with an After-Training Support Kit. The training was facilitated in collaboration with experts from the University of Southern Mindanao – Kabacan, the Local Government Unit of Surallah, and the APPC-South Cotabato, with assistance from on-the-job trainees of SKSU–ACCESS Campus.
This initiative stands as a testament to ATI-RTC XII’s proactive approach to enhancing regional capacities in livestock care and disease control—key pillars in ensuring sustainable rural livelihoods and food safety.