MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (PIA) -- The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC)-10, in collaboration with the City Veterinary Office (CVO) of Malaybalay City, organized a Training of Trainers on Swine Artificial Insemination (AI) for 28 participants, including 25 agricultural extension workers and 3 farmer leaders, on April 1–12, in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
"The training provided participants with the necessary knowledge and skills on various topics related to swine AI, including boar training, semen collection and evaluation, and determining the optimal time for insemination. The training aimed to empower the participants, equipping them with pertinent tools and information to excel in their respective roles in the livestock industry in the region," said Training Specialist Jeric L. Cabatac.
He added that the Philippine swine industry, a crucial sector contributing approximately 55 percent to the country's total animal industry, faced significant challenges due to the emergence of African swine fever (ASF). The ASF outbreak resulted in the culling of over 300,000 pigs, as well as a 20.8 percent decline in pork production in 2021.
In response, artificial insemination emerged as a cost-effective and safe method for swine reproduction, offering a promising solution for countering ASF's effects and accelerating swine repopulation, said Training Specialist Gia Joy B. Lusterio.
During the training, Livestock Inspector Annable C. Sia of CVO Malaybalay, Dr. Omar T. Cahanap, livestock production veterinarian, and Jeric L. Cabatac, an Animal Science graduate, covered various aspects of swine AI, including breed selection and health management.
Maria Eloisa A. Akut, ATI-RTC-10's retired information officer, led a presentation skills session. Participants engaged in microteaching exercises to enhance their teaching abilities, focusing on disseminating information effectively in their localities.
Furthermore, Phile Rae M. Bonggo and John Ray C. Sagrado of CVO provided instructions on effective boar management, including junior-to-senior boar training and identifying the optimal time for semen collection. Participants also practiced and refined their skills in semen collection under the trainers' guidance, devoting four days to mastering this critical aspect of swine reproductive management.
As a culmination of the training, participants developed re-entry plans for the AI program in their respective local government units (LGUs). Trainers also offered guidance and recommendations to enhance the feasibility and effectiveness of these plans. (RTP/ATI-10/PIA-10)
