To enhance swine breeding practices in the MIMAROPA region, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA spearheaded a “Training of Trainers (TOT) on Swine Artificial Insemination (AI)” on April 15-19, 2024 at the ATI - International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ITCPH) in Marawoy, Lipa City, Batangas.
In collaboration with ATI-ITCPH, the participants of the TOT, composed of 19 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and one (1) farmer, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to improve their knowledge and skills in livestock breeding.
Among the participants was Mr. Michael G. Catabona, an AEW from the Provincial Veterinarian’s Office - Occidental Mindoro, who emphasized the importance of continuous learning in improving farming practices. He highlighted the significance of AI in increasing agricultural productivity, motivating fellow participants to apply the learnings they acquired in their respective provinces.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa ATI MIMAROPA at sa pag-imbita sa amin ulit sa ganitong training. Sa ATI-ITCPH, maraming salamat sa pagbibigay ng kaalaman pagdating sa AI. Sa mga kasamahan naming participants, sana pagdating natin sa ating mga sariling probinsya, ituloy lang natin ang ating mga natutunan at huwag nating kalimutan na ituro ito sa iba,” he expressed.
Led by experienced resource speakers from ATI-ITCPH, the training provided participants with a step-by-step process of AI, including proper boar management, semen collection, laboratory evaluation, semen dilution/extension, semen storage, heat detection, and semen insemination.
They also became familiar with the setup of a functional AI laboratory, the use of basic AI equipment, learned about the common diseases of breeders, how to control them, and the economics of AI.
Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco, Center Director of ATI-ITCPH, extended her appreciation to ATI MIMAROPA for selecting their Center as the venue for the training. She stressed the importance of capacity-building initiatives in advancing agricultural practices, particularly in the field of swine AI.
To support their future endeavors in swine breeding, a total of 20 participants were provided with essential AI supplies such as semen bottles and catheters after the conduct of the TOT.
