CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)-10, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Camiguin, has launched a P10 million project intended to revitalize the island's swine population.
"This project is now even more crucial as we repopulate our pig population that was devastated by the African Swine Fever. With the establishment of this farm, we aim to produce our first batch of piglets for repopulation and dispersal by November to December this year," Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo said.
The 30-Sow Level Swine Multiplier and Technology Demonstration Farm aims to boost livestock production in the province. It is funded under the National Livestock Program-Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) by the Department of Agriculture (DA) through ATI-10.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing for the 30 Sow-Level Swine Multiplier and Techno Demo Farm took place in June 2023 with ATI-10 Center Director Maria Lydia Echavez and Romulado representing LGU Camiguin.
The program implementation encompasses the provision of breeder animals, housing and facilities, farm equipment, supplies, and materials. This concerted effort reflects a commitment to combat ASF and bolster Camiguin's swine population, contributing to the overall recovery of the local agricultural sector.
Sentinel pigs
Highlighting the current ‘sentineling’ process in the province, Dr. Lordgin Gamo, the provincial veterinarian, said the process focused on pigs that were exposed to and tested positive for ASF. He said the province is currently under code pink, signifying that there are no active ASF cases. However, it remains under observation, awaiting final results to ensure the effectiveness of the containment measures.
“Padayon japon nga ma-vigilant ta dili lang sa ASF kundi sa mga unsa nga sakit sa mananap. Magpadayon mi sa among regular surveillance. Every quarter, mag-blood sampling mi sa mga baboy. Farmers should cooperate, para sa atoa tanan nga gabuhi og mga gapangaon," Gamo said.
[Let's continue to be vigilant, not only against ASF but also with other animal diseases. We will continue with our regular surveillance. We will conduct blood sampling for pigs every quarter. It's crucial for farmers to cooperate to ensure the well-being and productivity of our livestock and the overall industry]
Since the ASF outbreak in Camiguin, the local government has implemented protocols that have proven successful in controlling the spread of the disease. As a result, the province has achieved an 80 percent success rate in the rehabilitation and recovery program for ASF, marking significant progress in the region. (RTP/PACR/PIA-10/Camiguin)
