THE Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) has granted a P10-million project to the Balili Backyard Hog Fattening Association in Benguet.
The undertaking, part of the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (Inspire) project, consists of a biosecure swine facility, fencing, swine drugs and biologics, feeds and initial piglet stocks.
Benguet Agricultural Program coordinating officer Lito Mocati said the Inspire project aims to institutionalize the biosecurity and repopulation of swine in light of African swine fever (ASF).
Benguet provincial veterinarian Dr. Purita Lesing encouraged Farmers and Cooperatives Association (FCA) members and Mankayan residents to help prevent the spread of animal diseases in the municipality. “You must do your part and observe biosecurity in order to protect your area with ASF and, if possible, buy the product of local swine raisers because at least you know the source and there is a health assurance,” she said.
Regional Livestock coordinator Dr. Kevin Jim Luna commended the association members for their dedication to the project. “Benguet and other provinces of the region are known for high-value [crop] production, but we are also looking for the future of the livestock sector,” he said.
He mentioned that Benguet’s budget in 2025 for the Livestock Program is P48 million, intended for multiplier farms.
The DA-CAR is always willing to help FCAs, Luna added.
The Balili Backyard Hog Fattening Association thanked DA-CAR, the provincial government of Benguet and the municipal government of Mankayan for their support in the project, saying it will do everything to ensure its success.
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