TANTANGAN, SOUTH COTABATO | The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII), through its Livestock Program, successfully conducted the Fiscal Year 2025 Consultative Planning Workshop last February 18, 2025 at AVB Hall, ATI-RTC XII, Brgy. San Felipe, Tantangan, South Cotabato. The event was led by Mr. Errol Chris A. Laspiñas, Agriculturist I, and Livestock Focal Person, with the assistance of Ms. Kissciel Arao-Arao, Technical Staff.  

The workshop brought together key stakeholders from various agencies in the livestock industry, including representatives from the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office XII, Philippine Carabao Center-USM, National Meat Inspection Service XII, Bureau of Animal Industry, SOXAARRDEC and SKSU, and provincial and city veterinary offices across the region. Ms. Simona P. Dela Cruz, Training Specialist III and CDMS Chief, warmly welcomed the attendees, followed by an inspiring message from DA-RFO XII Regional Executive Director Roberto T. Perales. He encouraged the agencies to focus on empowering farmers to increase their income rather than simply providing assistance. He also emphasized the need to align programs to address the real challenges faced by livestock farmers in the region.  

During the morning session, Mr. Laspiñas presented the Livestock Program’s FY 2024 Accomplishment Report, highlighting its achievements with the support of stakeholders. He also outlined the targeted training programs for FY 2025, allowing stakeholders to plan their participation as resource persons or attendees.  
Ms. Kirby Joi Sedillo-Garcia, Livestock Focal Person of DA-RFO XII, shared updates on the livestock industry in the region and discussed plans for 2025-2026, including preparations for the "Gawad Livestock" event in October 2025, which will now be an annual celebration.  

A key highlight of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between ATI-RTC XII and the Association of Learning Sites for Agriculture (ALSA)-Dose, which will benefit from the Swine Industry Recovery Project (SIRP). Ten LSA members will receive support under this initiative. This includes Umani Cabal Farm, Serag Farm, VMotril Farm, J3ED Farm, Pales Farm, Castromayor Diversified Farm, Jomento Farm, Makarios Farm, Nilda’s Farm, and Nenita Farm.  

The MOA signing was attended by ATI-RTC XII Staff Ms. Jey Ann N. Magana, Administrative Officer IV and Designated Budget Officer, Mr. John Lord L. Auman, OIC-ISS Chief, and Mr. John Mikel D. Ternida, Accountant I. Ms. Michelle P. Sueno, ALSA-Dose President, signed on behalf of the association, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and commitment to ensuring the project's success. 

In the afternoon, Mr. Laspiñas facilitated a Workshop on Training Needs for 2026-2027, gathering input from stakeholders on essential training programs for their communities.  

The event concluded with a closing remark from Mr. John Lord L. Auman, who thanked all participants for their active engagement. He also relayed key directives from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., emphasizing that there should be no more excuses for being prompt in delivering quality service to our livestock farmers.

This consultative workshop marks a significant step in strengthening ATI-RTC XII’s livestock programs and fostering partnerships to enhance the region’s livestock industry.