ILOCOS REGION, August 15, 2023 – Three (3) farmers associations (FAs) from Pangasinan received inputs for Cattle Fattener Project  from the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Phase 2 intended for communal rearing.

On May 31, 26 cattle fatteners were awarded to the United Barangay San Antonio Sto. Tomas Farmers’ Association, Inc. with 26 members in Pangasinan. The ceremony was attended by officials from the Municipal Agriculture Office, Ms. Khristina Leodeth Gagote, and representatives from the Office of Provincial Agriculturist, Ms. Amelia Cariaga, and District Veterinarian Dr. Marissa De Vera.

Shortly after, on June 1, the Sibugan Farmers’ Association in Bagulin, La Union, and Riverside Greeners Association in Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte also received 26 head of cattle each simultaneously. 

In total, the project under FY 2023 costs Php 2,808,000.00 benefitting a total of 78 members from the three (3) associations.

During the ceremony in Pangasinan, Dr. Marvin Quilates, Agricultural Programs Coordinating Officer (APCO) for Pangasinan emphasized the importance of proper management of the cattle inputs, urging the farmers to treat them with the same level of care they provide for themselves. He encouraged prompt reporting of any observations regarding the cattle’s health or well-being for appropriate action. “Alagaan nyo po ‘yan gaya ng pag-aalaga ninyo sa inyong mga sarili. Pag may na-observe kayong hindi maganda sa inyong baka, i-report nyo agad para maireport sa supplier,” said Dr. Quilates.

The livelihood package comprises essential resources such as drugs, biologics, and ruminant grower feeds. These supplies are given out to ensure the overall well-being and health of the livestock, promoting optimal growth and productivity. 

This project is aligned with the primary livelihood activities of the FAs, which include cattle raising alongside rice and corn production. Through this, the farmers have the opportunity to reinvest their income into additional cycles of cattle fattening production. They may also establish and operate cattle fattening enterprises involving sale of live cattle and beef in accordance with the policies and guidelines set by their respective associations. 

Moving forward, under the Food Production and Livelihood (FPL) component, beneficiaries shall undergo specialized training on proper cattle management to equip  them with effective rearing practices from August 22 to September 29.  

Writer: Roley Ann P. Dela Cruz, DA-SAAD Ilocos Region Information Officer