Researchers, academe, policymakers, and farmers based in Tagbilaran City, Bohol were recently equipped with knowledge and skills in native chicken production, management and profitable enterprise development. The training on “Enhancing Production Performance of Boholano Native Chicken through Breeding and Selection Strategies,” held at Maxi Hotel Tagbilaran City, Bohol, was organized and implemented by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) in partnership with the Bohol Island State University (BISU).
BISU President Anthony M. Penaso and DOST-PCAARRD Livestock Research Division Director Synan S. Baguio welcomed the participants. Sessions for the first day focused on native chicken conservation and utilization by Dr. Baguio and marketing strategies and cost return analysis by Ms. Glenda P. Fule, Science Research Specialist 1 of LRD, DOST-PCAARRD. Participants also gained valuable insights about production management practices and hatchery operations. The day concluded with insights on the economic viability of breeder stocks presented by Dr. Tomas M. Austral, Jr. project leader of the Caraga Black Native Chicken Project.
The second day centered on major topics such as farm recording systems, feeds and feeding strategies and selection and breeding approaches to improve native chicken performance. Dr. Ronilo O. De Castro, Supervising Science Research Specialist of LRD, DOST-PCAARRD, discussed the feeding systems for native chicken. Dr. Baguio emphasized that since feed cost is the leading expense in native chicken production, it is vital to focus and develop our native chicken breeds as they have the capacity to utilize locally-available feed resources that can relatively reduce the cost of feeds in native chicken production. The day’s discussions were further enriched by the presentations of Mr. Herald Nygel F. Bautista of UPLB and Dr. Tomas M. Austral, Jr.
The final day featured Mr. Bautista, who shared practical applications in the production and breeding of Darag Native Chicken. The training wrapped up with a post-test, awarding of certificates, and participants’ impressions led by Dr. Marites R. Dayo of LRD, DOST-PCAARRD.
The three-day event not only equipped participants with technical knowledge, but also fostered collaboration among stakeholders working towards the improvement of the Boholano Native Chickens. By bridging research and practical farm applications, this initiative strengthens the native chicken industry and provides livelihood opportunities for local farmers in Bohol.