PAGADIAN CITY (PIA) – The ‘Layer Chicken Egg Production Project’ in Zamboanga Peninsula is boosting the income generation of small-scale farmers in the region.
Layer chicken egg production, a form of poultry farming that focuses on raising female chickens specifically bred for egg laying, is a project of the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Phase 2.
These hens, often referred to as “layers,” are carefully selected and managed to maximize egg production.
Mr. Richard Bregildo, President of Bolingan Farmers Association (FA) from Talusan, Zamboanga Sibugay, shared how the program improved his family’s economic situation.
“Because of the DA-SAAD, I now receive P8,000 every month for tending the poultry farm. Compared to before, our family’s livelihood has really improved. Thank you very much,” he said.
The Bolingan FA, along with the five other associations received 20 modules or 960 head of layer chickens each last July 2024, and reported substantial monthly harvests that generated significant income.
Further, the 7M La Victoria (7MLV) FA and Makugihong Mag-uuma sa Poblacion (MMP), which received 30 modules or 1,440 heads of layer chickens each demonstrated strong financial performance. 7MLVFA reported a total harvest of 34,177 eggs in December 2024 generating gross sales of P 227,463. Similarly, MMP sold 31,475 eggs, earning a gross income of P262,306.
7M La Victoria FA President Mr. Nixon Lusdoc thanks DA-SAAD Program for the project.
“We are very grateful for giving us this poultry project. We will take care of it and manage it well because this is only for our welfare,” Lusdoc said.
This project typically provide farmers with essential resources, including access to high-quality ready-to-lay pullets, balanced feed, necessary animal drugs, and biologics, along with training on good practices in poultry management, including biosecurity, nutrition, and disease prevention.
Income generation through layer egg production offers significant advantages. Eggs are a highly demanded and consumed food product, ensuring a steady market for farmers. The production cycle is relatively short, allowing for quick returns on investment.
Successful projects often lead to increased household incomes, improved food security, and enhanced economic empowerment for rural communities.
Since its inception in 2023, the SAAD Program Phase 2 implemented 8 layer chicken egg production projects that benefited 8 farmers’ associations with 203 members across priority municipalities in Zamboanga Del Sur, Zamboanga Del Norte, and Zamboanga Sibugay. (EDT/CCP/PIA9 with reports and photos from DA-SAAD)
