BAGUIO CITY – Gearing towards the finalization of the FY 2024 livestock program plan and budget proposals for the country recently, marks the first day of the four-day workshop at the Newtown Plaza Hotel, Baguio City.
The activity will facilitate the smooth implementation of the FY 2024 programs and activities and will enable the budget to improve operational efficiency.
DA-CAR Regional Executive Director Cameron P. Odsey warmly welcomed the participants. In his message, he underscored the need to look into the guidelines of the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) Program for possible amendments. He cited the geographical location of the Cordillera region as an example. He added that support to backyard raisers should also be included.
Moreover, he suggested transfer of funds to Local Government Units given their capacity to disburse funds and the fact that strong cooperation with them has already been established.
Meanwhile, the Director of National Livestock Program (NLP) Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco advised the participants to focus on production, provision of equipment and machinery, and extension support (assets). “Remember, for year 2024 we are aiming for modernization and mechanization of the livestock, poultry and dairy industry,” she said.
Further, Director Sonaco stressed the need to consult and coordinate with the stakeholders. She also mentioned that 2022 was a challenging year for the NLP as it was the first time it was able to implement a 4.1B pesos project. With that, she commended all the regional offices for a job well done. She encouraged the participants by saying “2022 we survived, 2023 we will survive, and 2024 let’s rock and roll.”
A total of around 4.5B pesos is the budget allocation for FY 2024 that the participants need to trench out for this workshop.
Also present during the activity are DA-CAR Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Atty. Jennilyn Dawayan, Dr. Louis Abante, BAI; Mr. Gabi Lagamayo, NDA; Mr. Rodolfo Guieb, OSEC Consultant. By LDMendoza
