The Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center 02 (ATI-RTC 2) organized a training title “Kumikitang Patok sa Manok: Traning on Free-Range Chicken Production for Livestock Economic Enterprise Development Program Beneficiaries” to strengthen livestock-based enterprises and support sustainable poultry practices on May 21-23, 2025, at the ATI-RTC 2, San Mateo, Isabela. A total of 33 farmers, coming from 13 Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) from the region, participated in the training.
Free-range chicken (FRC) production has become widely use due to its significance on animal welfare and food safety. In this approach, chickens are raised in open locations where they can roam freely, consume natural forage and grains, and are exposed to sunlight and fresh air—playing a part on healthier, antibiotic-free meat. In support of this method, the National Livestock Program under the Department of Agriculture has started projects for the establishment of FRC facilities, which 13 FCAs have already gained from as of December 2024.
This three-day training officially opened with a message from Mr. Vladimir B. Caliguiran, OIC-Assistant Center Director and Chief of Information Services Section (ISS). Dr. Maurieann M. Turingan, the Project Officer, presented an overview of the activity and its objectives. The training emphasized lectures and discussions on free-range chicken production, delivered by resource persons Dr. Turingan and Dr. Adrian Ramos of DA-SCRC. Ms. Jennilyn Pablo also provided input on waste management techniques for poultry operations, while Engr. Fhrea G. Domingo addresses the value of proper recordkeeping in agricultural enterprises.
During the graduation and closing program, Dr. Claris M. Alaska, OIC-Center Director of ATI-RTC 2, delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the values of responsibility, discipline, and commitment to ensure project sustainability. She encouraged the participants to apply what they had learned and to serve as leaders in their respective organizations.
Thus, the participants shared positive impressions about the training, highlighting the expertise of the resource speakers, and the overall quality of the event. Mr. Loreto Bautista Jr. from Tumauini, Isabela, stated, “Bagamat marami na akong mga na-attendan na ganitong pagsasanay, ito lang ang natutunan ko na patungkol sa pagmamanukan. Napakalaking tulong ito sa akin dahil mas crops-focused ako dati, at ngayon ay may plano na kami para sa integrated farming.” Likewise, Mr. Sony Ambala from Sanchez Mira, Cagayan, expressed his appreciation for the practical knowledge shared, “Daytuy nga training ket dakkel ti naited na kanyak kasi I’ve been in poultry production for years. This will help us contribute more to food security through our cooperative's Free-Range Chicken project.”
Through this initiative, ATI-RTC 2 reaffirms its role as the Department of Agriculture’s capacity-building arm, committed to empowering FCAs with practical and science-based knowledge that supports sustainable agricultural development. As these beneficiaries return to their respective communities, they are now better equipped not only with technical know-how but also with the motivation to manage their poultry projects successfully and contribute meaningfully to rural development.
By: Zah Alfonso
