The province of Apayao is training livestock farmers to enhance their knowledge and skills in raising healthy cattle and carabao for meat and milk production.
Starting this June, more than 40 farmers are currently enrolled in a Farmer Livestock School (FLS).
Spearheaded by the Apayao Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), the schooling will span for seven months at the Apayao Ecotourism Sports Complex Clubhouse in Luna town, Apayao where the participants will be required to attend weekly meetings.
As part of the training module, the farmer participants are expected to gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to large ruminant production, including cattle and carabao farming.
Specifically, they will receive expert guidance and training in areas such as breeding, nutrition, health management, and proper handling techniques.
“We want to equip them with the right techniques and information, and by empowering our farmers with necessary skills and knowledge to improve their livestock production, we hope to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the development of the agricultural sector in the province,” said provincial veterinarian Dr. Ralph Verzon in a statement on Tuesday.
Apayao province is among the top raisers of buffalo in the Cordillera Region with 18,175 heads as of July 2022 based on the latest livestock survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Seen to alleviate poverty and address food security and malnutrition in the province, the Apayao government has initially allocated PHP3 million for the program.
The program will follow a structured curriculum that covers various topics starting from the basics of large ruminant management to more advanced subjects such as artificial insemination and disease prevention.
The farmers will also have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, attend lectures, and interact with experienced veterinarians and livestock experts.
Over the course of seven months, the PVO will conduct weekly meetings to ensure regular interaction and knowledge sharing among the farmers.
This collaborative environment will enable farmers to learn from each other’s experiences, exchange best practices, and develop a network of support within the local farming community.
As a graduate of FLS himself, Apayao Vice Governor Remy Albano urged ruminant farmers to take advantage of the program and apply it to improve their quality of life.
“After a period of seven months, let us help one another and share what we have learned to our constituents,” Albano said. (PNA)
