According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), dairy buffaloes contribute to about 15% of world milk production and produce more milk in wet tropical regions, such as the Philippines. However, dairy productivity in developing countries is constrained by poor management and poor-quality feed resources.
To address these constraints, the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) has developed its Genetic Improvement Program aimed at enhancing the breed of Philippine water buffalo. The Artificial Insemination (AI) project of the government, through the DA-National Livestock Program (DA-NLP), is significant in improving the industry. AI and pregnancy diagnosis (PD) are essential techniques for introducing semen into the reproductive tract and determining if a female is pregnant. These techniques can greatly enhance the efficiency of breeding programs and contribute to the overall health and productivity of the herd.
To support this program, DA-Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON, in partnership with the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) at UPLB, spearheaded the "Basic Training Course on Artificial Insemination (AI) and Pregnancy Diagnosis (PD) in Large Animals" at UP Los Baños, Laguna, held from July 1-26, 2024.
The training was designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of the participants in artificial insemination and pregnancy diagnosis, making them competent in providing extension services on large ruminants. The course covered various topics on AI and PD, with hands-on exercises on rectal palpation and ultrasonography, insertion of AI guns, demonstration of alpha vision, estrus detection, and more.
After completing the 24-day training, fifteen (15) agricultural extension workers (AEWs) from selected local government units successfully received their certificates of completion, equipped with the knowledge and skills to be deployed as AI Technicians in their localities.
“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa ATI at PCC sa pagbibigay po sa amin ng opportunity na makapag-attend sa ganitong training na hindi lang kami ang matutulungan nyo kundi ang bayan at mga magsasaka sa aming mga lugar. Sa umpisa po ay mukhang mahirap ang training pero mahirap po talaga pero pinadali nyo po dahil po sa magagaling nyong RP at mentor,” said Geralyn G. Dela Cruz from Rodriguez, Rizal.
Moreover, five (5) participants were recognized for their exemplary performance in their written and practical exams:
- Top 1: Niña Marie Ramos
- Top 2: Jemson Q. Fernandez
- Top 3: John Carlo Orido
- Top 4: Danica Joy B. Cervantes
- Top 5: Allan Ray Abesamis
As the program concluded, center directors from DA-ATI CALABARZON and DA-PCC at UPLB, Dr. Rolando V. Maningas and Dr. Thelma A. Saludes, respectively, delivered their messages to inspire and congratulate the graduates.
News report by: Janine Cailo
