BAYBAY CITY, Leyte - The livestock sector is a key component of Philippine agriculture and can significantly promote passage out of poverty for small-scale livestock growers. It contributes approximately 16 percent of the gross value added in agriculture. New policy initiatives were recently initiated to address the rapidly growing and changing impact of livestock production on economic development, social equity, the environment, and public health. The Livestock Program was given an increase in allocation commensurate to its contribution in the GVA in agriculture.
On February 13-17, 2023, the Agricultural Training Institute conducted a Consultative Planning Workshop of ATI and the National Livestock Program (NLP) for their plans and activities for 2024-2025. The workshop, conducted at ATI-RTC 8, gathered the different livestock program point persons and Center Directors of the ATI network, and representatives from the National Livestock Program.
After the opening program Dr. Ruth-Miclat Sonaco, ATI National Coordinator for Livestock and DA NLP Director, presented the ASF Effect on the Swine Population from 2019-2022 followed by the livestock roadmap and policy directions. Sharing of best practices, experiences, and challenges brought by the Swine Multiplier Farm and SWAIB project was also the highlight of the activity.
Engr. Remelyn Recoter, OIC-Director of ATI, was present during the national activity. During her talk, she pointed out that the planned training programs for the next two years should be market-focused, with mechanized approach, and innovative. Furthermore, Engr. Recoter encouraged the participants to do their best in their respective areas of assignment. “We should contribute, we should deliver the tasks assigned to us.”
