Cattle Production Training Strengthens ZDS Coco Farmers Practices
Cherry Jane V. Bagonggong
The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering livestock farmers by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable livestock management and production. This was exemplified in the Training on Livestock Production (Cattle) – Batch 2, held from August 4 to 8, 2025, in Pagadian City.
The five-day training was made possible through the collaborative efforts of ATI, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA). The program aimed to help participants develop practical skills, broaden their technical knowledge, and gain hands-on experience in various aspects of cattle production and management.
Throughout the training, participants actively engaged in a series of learning activities at BAI-NSRRDC, Bagalupa, Zamboanga del Sur, including Silage Preservation to learn proper fodder storage techniques, Urea Molasses Mineral Block (UMMB) demonstration to explore cost-effective livestock supplements, medicine administration handling to build their capability in basic animal healthcare, and Feeding Strategies for Ruminants. These practical sessions allowed farmers to directly apply the concepts learned, enhancing their capability to implement improved practices on their farms.
This activity also allowed them to personally identify different forage species, both legumes and grasses, that can be used to improve animal nutrition. This exposure helped participants appreciate the importance of feed diversity in maintaining healthy and productive livestock.
Serving as resource persons were Mr. Rohel Abrenica and Mr. Carlito Tariman Jr., who provided expert guidance during the practical activities and shared insights from their field experiences.
The Closing Program was graced by the ATI-9 OIC-Center Director, Dr. Gerry R. Pagarigan, who delivered a meaningful and inspiring message to the participants. He encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge on their farms and to serve as advocates for sustainable and efficient livestock production in their respective communities.
One of the participants, Ms. Merly A. Batoto, shared, “Kining atong nakat-onnan karon kung ma-apply sa atong kooperatiba, posible nga mo-increase ang panginabuhi sa mga coconut farmers ug daghan ang mga makabenepisyo niini,” during her impression.
With these initiatives, the ATI, together with CFIDP partner agencies, continues to foster the growth of the livestock sector by empowering coconut farmers to adopt innovative, science-based, and sustainable practices, ensuring better productivity, profitability, and food security.
