In partnership with the Provincial Veterinary Office of Batangas, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program CALABARZON successfully conducted the Specialized Training on Swine Production for two farmers’ association in Tingloy, Batangas from May 19-22, 2026.
A total of 53 farmers participated in the training, including 26 members from the San Isidro Farmers Agricultural Organization (SIFAO) and 27 members from Samahang Magsasaka ng Barangay Papaya (SMBP). The activity provided participants with practical knowledge and essential skills in swine production and management.
Mr. Mark Angelo C. Buhat, Agricultural Technician II from the Livestock Development Division, discussed the overview of Philippine swine industry, common pig breeds, natural breeding and artificial insemination, swine management practices, and housing systems for natural pig farming. Participants actively engaged in the discussions by sharing their common experiences, particularly on breeding management and identifying the standing heat of female pigs.
The training also highlighted the importance of proper waste management in swine production.
“Kailangan po nating pangasiwaan ang dumi ng baboy, maaari natin itong gawing kapakipakinabang sa pamamagitan ng paggamit bilang biogas, at organikong pataba, matapos ang wastong pagproseso. Sa ganitong paraan, maaaring mabawasan ang polusyon sa ating paligid,” Buhat explained.
[We need to properly manage pig waste. It can be utilized productively by converting it into biogas or organic fertilizer after proper processing. In this way, environmental pollution can be reduced.]
Meanwhile, Dr. Sarah Jane L. Moog, Veterinarian III, from the Animal Health and Management Division, discussed swine health and disease management, including the identification of healthy and sick pigs, as well as the symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention of swine diseases. The knowledge gained from the training will help farmers effectively monitor and manage the health of their livestock.
Mr. Manuel Belen, an active member of SIFAO, shared his insights on the training, “Marami po akong natutunan ko sa pamamaraan ng pag aalaga ng baboy tulad ng pagkakaroon ng malinis at tamang sukat ng piggery na mayroong deposito, tamang pagpili ng inahing baboy at tamang edad upang pakastahan ang dumalagang baboy. Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagtitiwala para sa pagpapatuloy at pagpapalago ng ating samahan”.
[I learned a lot about proper swine management, such as maintaining a clean piggery with the right size and proper waste disposal, selecting the right breeder sow, and determining the proper age for breeding a gilt. We are thankful for your trust and support in sustaining and strengthening our association.]
The training played a vital role in strengthening the farmers’ sense of ownership while enhancing their technical knowledge and skills in swine production. These competencies will help prepare the beneficiaries for the upcoming FY 2026 Food Production and Livelihood intervention under the program, which includes the distribution of gilts, boars, and feeds scheduled for delivery within June 2026.
By improving farmers’ technical capabilities and readiness, the activity supports the DA-SAAD Program’s goal of increasing productivity, improving livelihoods, and promoting long-term agricultural development in the island municipality of Tingloy. ###
