Goat raising is one of the simplest, and low-cost food production projects that Filipinos may venture into. The rising cost of commercial feeds make goats one of the most economical alternatives for meeting the protein needs of Filipino families.
The Philippine meat and dairy industry, although considered a vital component of the country’s economic and nutritional development, remains undeveloped. Presently, the country imports 98 percent of its milk and other dairy product requirements. This calls for a more focused technological intervention, particularly in good animal husbandry practices for meat and dairy goat production if it must meet its potential.
ATI-RTC 8 convened local livestock focals with the objective to create pool of trainers in the modality of meat and dairy goat production and management in Eastern Visayas.
The training of trainers on meat and dairy goat production and management aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of livestock extension workers in the modality of goat production and management. The activity also aims to create an additional pool of trainers to cascade the technologies in goat production.
The first and second day focused on goat industry status, production system, goat housing, stock management, breeds and breeding and animal nutrition. On third day, participants visited the DA-RFO 8 Goat Breeding Center in Malitbog, Southern Leyte where they experienced hygienic milk collection and handling of the dairy product, including basic milk processing.
Consequently, participants visited the goat project of Visayas State University where they experienced proper restraining of animals, hoof trimming, drug administration, deworming, and health assessment of animals. They also had a hands-on activity in making the Urea Molasses Mineral Block (UMMB) as a vitamins-mineral supplement. All the participants were required to prepare and deliver select topics for the microteaching.
Mr. Luisito Ranas form LGU-Quinapondan, shares, “Thank you so much ATI-RTC 8, inviting us to attend this training program on TOT on Meat and Dairy Goat Production and Management. For me, this training is a complete package, from goat farming technology to hands-on activities. Plus, the short course on resource person development, wherein we were given a chance to prepare the visual aide and deliver the topic. It is very interesting and challenging.”
The training also included representatives from farm partners. Ms. Mary Grace Pening, instructor of Pinamopoan Farm School shares, “The training provided me additional knowledge on how to manage a goat farm. I also acquired basic knowledge and skills on how to handle animals like restraining techniques and apply regular stock management check-up for yearlings and breeders. We are grateful for the training program, hopefully we can also add the goat modules in our farm.”
Aside from the Urea-Molasses Mineral Block (ruminant supplements), participants developed farm layout plans and submitted their re-entry plans.
A total of 22 participants completed the Training of Trainers on Meat and Dairy Goat Production and Management on March 20-24, 2023 at ATI-RTC 8, VSU Campus, Baybay City, Leyte. (With written reports from Allen P. Goroy)
