Ongoing initiatives on native pig and native chicken development in Zamboanga were recently evaluated by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). The projects, which dealt with the development of the ZamPen native chicken and native pig, are being implemented by Western Mindanao State University (WMSU).
During the meeting, Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Director of the Livestock Research Division of DOST-PCAARRD highlighted the importance of science-driven solutions for livestock production, particularly on science-based breeding and selection.
WMSU researchers presented the DOST-PCAARRD-funded projects focused on the establishment of breeding herds of ZamPen Native Pigs. Moreover, a DOST-funded program, “Niche Centers in the Regions for Research and Development (NICER): Native Chicken R&D Phase II,” showcased multiple studies that are important in the promotion of ZamPen Native Chicken production in the region.
On the second day, participants field-visited the farms where the projects were being implemented and saw actual progress of the different projects. They observed the ZamPen native chicken flocks at the WMSU College of Agriculture and the ZamPen native pig foundation herd at San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF), a facility operated by the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) in Zamboanga City. The hands-on interaction provided valuable insights into the practical application of the research projects, as well as the challenges faced by the partner agencies.
The two-day monitoring and evaluation activity also served as an avenue for DOST-PCAARRD and its partner institutions to demonstrate their strong commitment to promoting sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.
