Fifteen (15) Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from the MIMAROPA region and Catanduanes province completed the 24-day Basic Training Course on Artificial Insemination (AI) and Pregnancy and Diagnosis (PD) in Large Ruminants at the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on August 26- September 18, 2024.
The training provided the participants with various activities including lectures on relevant topics focusing on carabao breeds and genetics, animal health and management, and artificial insemination and pregnancy diagnosis techniques during the first week, which were given by the PCC experts.
The participants also engaged in practical sessions to apply the knowledge they gained from the lectures, while field practicums were simultaneously conducted in the Mindoro Provinces.
The remaining days of the training were spent on crafting re-entry plans and a field tour at the Carabao-based Enterprise Development (CBED) model farmer and AI technician’s site. Participants also had the opportunity to visit Mr. Alberto Macalindong’s Farm in Tigisan, Bansud, Oriental Mindoro; Mr. Tolentino A. De Leon’s Farms in Malitbog, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro; and the Dairy Box managed by Mindoro Dairy Cooperative (MIDACO) in Salcedo, Bansud, Oriental Mindoro.
As the highlight of the activity, participants presented their re-entry plans and took an oral examination. Those who excelled throughout the activities were then recognized.
Mr. Robert M. Tanael, Agricultural Technologist at the Municipal Agriculture Office of Bato, Catanduanes and one of the participants, expressed his gratitude to the training management team and facilitators, noting that the activity was relevant to the needs of the community.
“Completing this training on AI and PD is an honor. It has equipped me with the basics of AI, as well as techniques and strategies for effective implementation and success in this program, which is essential na matulungan ang mga kabuhayan ng farmers na sila naman po talaga ang ating target,” he said.
