Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental – As part of its continuing mission to strengthen livestock production systems and promote sustainable agricultural practices, the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center 7 (ATI-RTC 7) successfully conducted a three-day Training on Swine Production and Management from April 1 to 3, 2025, at the Sierra Hotel, this city.

The training brought together Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmers from Negros Oriental aiming to capacitate them with science-based knowledge and field-ready skills in swine husbandry. The course covered foundational principles of sustainable pig farming in alignment with modern animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental standards.

Delivered by technical experts from the Provincial Veterinary Office of Negros Oriental, the program addressed the following core areas: a) Identification and characteristics of various swine breeds and their reproductive performance, b) Appropriate housing systems designed for animal welfare and efficiency, c) Nutritional management using scientifically guided feeding practices, d) Disease recognition, prevention, and herd health protocols, e) Effective waste management and utilization strategies and f) Biosecurity planning and implementation at the farm level.

Participants also engaged in practical exercises and group discussions to reinforce their learning and prepare actionable re-entry plans for implementation in their local communities.

“This training is essential not only for improving productivity but for establishing resilient and responsible livestock systems within local government units,” said Ms. Jessa P. Maglangit, Development Management Officer I and Project Officer. “Our goal is to empower our frontliners to be agents of innovation and sustainability.”

Ms. Danelyn Enero, who served as Technical Support Staff, assisted in delivering the training effectively.

This activity underscores ATI-7’s broader commitment to promoting inclusive agricultural development and ensuring food security through capacity-building efforts tailored for rural practitioners and frontline extension workers.

The training is expected to have a ripple effect, as participants bring their newly acquired expertise back to their respective areas, catalyzing improvements in livestock health, farm productivity, and environmental stewardship across the region.