A project that aims to optimize the productivity and profitability of the genetically superior breeder duck called ‘ItikPINAS’ (IP) in Zamboanga del Sur is underway and will be implemented by J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC)-Mati Campus.
ItikPINAS was developed through the Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) on Duck, supported by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), through its Livestock Research Division (LRD). The development of Itik PINAS was in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry-National Swine and Poultry Research and Development Center (DA-BAI-NSPRDC). Through years of research, the Duck ISP has successfully developed three genetic groups of IP: IP-Itim, IP-Khaki and IP-Kayumanggi and has established breeder farms nationwide.
With the development of the three genetic IP groups, the project, “Optimizing Productivity and Profitability of ItikPINAS: A Sustainable Approach to Duck Farming in Zamboanga del Sur,” will ensure that farmers will optimize sustainable duck farming practices in Zamboanga del Sur. The project was formally launched through a Project Inception Meeting and Workshop on July 13–14, 2026, at the JHCSC Hostel in Pagadian Campus, Zamboanga del Sur.
At the Inception Meeting, Dr. Mark E. Patalinhug, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development, and Extension of JHCSC, welcomed the participants, followed by a presentation of the project rationale by Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director of LRD-DOST-PCAARRD. An inspiring message was given by Mr. Elvin Bulfa, owner of La Norte Duck Farm, who shared his experiences and success in ItikPINAS production, highlighting its potential to improve farmers' productivity and livelihood.
The meeting officially marked the start of the project's implementation and served as a venue to align JHCSC and DOST-PCAARRD on the approved project objectives, implementation strategies, work plan, budget utilization, expected outputs, monitoring requirements, and institutional responsibilities. The activity was attended by JHCSC administrators and project staff and representatives from DOST-PCAARRD.
During the meeting, Ms. Ma. Josette San Luis, Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST-PCAARRD’s Office of the Executive Director for Research and Development (OED-RD) presented the PCAARRD policies and guidelines on project implementation and monitoring, including the documentation, financial management, reporting requirements, and monitoring mechanisms to be observed throughout the implementation period.
Project Leader Dr. Emelyn D. Tormes presented the project rationale, objectives, implementation framework, work plan, and major activities. She also highlighted the project's goal of improving the productivity and profitability of duck farming while promoting sustainable production practices that will benefit duck raisers and other stakeholders in the province. Dr. Synan S. Baguio also presented the development and current status of ItikPINAS, providing participants with updates on the breed's performance, characteristics, and its potential contribution to strengthening the local duck industry. The presentations were followed by technical discussions to clarify project requirements, implementation strategies, and operational concerns.
On the second day, the DOST-PCAARRD monitoring and the JHCSC project teams assessed the proposed project site and implementation area. The Team also evaluated the site's suitability and provided technical recommendations, farm management interventions, infrastructure requirements, and other measures to support the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of the project.
The activity concluded with the formulation of action plans and agreements on project deliverables, implementation schedules, monitoring arrangements, and the respective responsibilities of the participating offices. These agreements will guide the project team throughout the implementation period and support the timely achievement of the project's targets.
Through its continued support to research and development initiatives, DOST-PCAARRD remains committed to advancing sustainable duck production technologies, strengthening research partnerships with state universities and colleges, and improving the productivity, profitability, and competitiveness of the Philippine duck industry.