The participants conduct a field observation activity at the Waste Processing Facility of Pecuaria Development Cooperative Farm in Bula, Camarines Sur.

NAGA CITY, CAMARINES SUR – In a bid to promote sustainable farming practices and environmental responsibility in the swine industry, the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center V (ATI Bicol), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Office V (DA-RFO 5), successfully conducted the "Trash to Cash: Training on Animal Waste Management and Utilization." The three-day training, held at Villa Rosita Hotel, Naga City from March 18-20, brought together 20 beneficiaries from the Swine Industry Recovery Project (SIRP) and the Integrated National Swine Production Initiative for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) Project.

The training provided participants with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in animal waste management and utilization technologies, empowering them to implement environmentally friendly and economically viable waste solutions in their respective farms.

The training kicked off with an opening program, where Engr. John Smith Arcilla welcomed the participants, resource persons, and training management team. Roberto B. Santos, Jr., ATI Bicol Agriculturist II, provided an overview of the training objectives and its significance in improving waste management in pig farming.

The sessions began with Module 1: Approaches to an Environment-Friendly Pig Production, presented by Mr. Santos, where participants learned about the negative impacts of waste on the environment, animal health, and water bodies.

Ms. Maria Teresa B. Bracia, Provincial Livestock and Poultry Coordinator of OPA Camarines Sur, led Module 2: Options for Animal Waste Management and Utilization, discussing waste composition, treatment methods, and their purpose.

The day's discussions concluded with a session on biogas production, facilitated by Mr. Ronnie T. Purisima from DA-RFO 5, where participants explored how swine waste can be converted into a renewable energy source for farm operations.

The second day began with a recap of the previous sessions, followed by discussions on Module 4: Lactic Acid Bacteria Serum (LABS) Production and Module 5: Vermicomposting, both facilitated by Ms. Bracia. Participants learned about LABS as a probiotic solution for waste treatment and the use of vermicomposting to transform manure into organic fertilizer.

A highlight of the day was the field visit to Pecuaria Development Cooperative (PDC) in Bula, Camarines Sur, where participants observed waste processing facilities and a biogas system in action. The visit provided an opportunity for first-hand learning, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain insights from PDC personnel.

The final day focused on Module 6: Bio-Organic Fertilizer Production and Module 7: Mortality Composting, where Ms. Bracia introduced different methods for disposing of animal carcasses and producing organic fertilizers from animal waste. Participants engaged in hands-on preparation of bio-organic fertilizers, reinforcing their learning through practical application.

The training concluded with a course synthesis presented by the co-project officer, followed by testimonials from three selected participants who shared their key takeaways and insights.

ATI Bicol Center Director Elsa A. Parot delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of responsible waste management in livestock operations. She also recognized the active participation of the SIRP and INSPIRE beneficiaries in the training.

To ensure the sustainability and impact of the training, the following agreements were established:

• Implement an Animal Waste Management Plan for SIRP and INSPIRE-funded projects, DA Multiplier Farms, and other livestock-based initiatives.
• Orientat cooperative and association members on the importance of waste management and utilization.
•  Implement re-entry plans, with ATI monitoring progress six months after training (October 2025 onwards).
• Develop additional project proposals for future swine-based training programs.