DA-Visayas tackles concerns of livestock and poultry sectors

LACK of breeder stocks and high cost of farm inputs are the major concerns presented by the livestock and poultry sectors from the three Visayas regions during the Area-Wide Consultation (Visayas leg) on Thursday by the Department of Agriculture.

The livestock sector, comprising of breeders for swine, cattle, and goats, and the poultry sector were also worried on the lack of biosecurity due to the prevalence of animal diseases.

A report compiled by Leo Cañete, an officer of the sector, stated however that the problem on lack of breeder stocks was already started to be addressed, one of which is the putting up of breeding services in the barangays that could supply ready stocks when needed.

Information on the proper and effective breeding methods will also be strengthened, the report said.

In the poultry sector, the inadequate corn supply for poulty feeds was discussed. Among the strategic interventions cited to address the problem was giving the corn farmers the access to hybrid corn seeds, better technology, and training to raise their productions.

The seed and fertilizer subsidy for corn production will be expanded, with the inclusion of insurance, and that farmers’ organization will also be strengthened. On the prevalence of animal diseases, the sectors proposed for a better bio-security measures starting at the backyard level.

President Gloria Arroyo initiated the Area-Wide Consultations to get first-hand data from the sectors themselves about their concerns and suggestions to solve these problems.

DA records so far showed that the livestock sector posted last December a 2.38 percent increase in production. while the poultry sector posted a 6.77 percent increase. — Ferliza C. Contratista/RAE