TUBA, Benguet – The Department of Agriculture–Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) turned over a PhP10 million project under the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) Program to the Taloy Sur Integrated Farming Practitioners Association (TIFPA) recently.
The project aims to revitalize the local swine industry by establishing a farm. It includes the construction of a perimeter fence, climate-controlled animal housing, a waste management system, basic farm equipment, and facilities such as an office and a shower area. The project also supplies 300 piglets (15–20 kg live weight), feeds, biologics, and disinfectants.
Engr. Filemon A. Salvador, Chief of the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division, emphasized the collective effort behind the initiative. “Your strong cooperation and commitment, especially in addressing challenges like road access, made this achievement possible,” he said.
Established in 2013, TIFPA, formerly known as the Taloy Sur Organic Agricultural Producers Association, has grown from a small organization focused on chicken and pig raising into a successful agribusiness contributing to the local economy. As part of the INSPIRE project, TIFPA provided a counterpart of ₱2.5 million sourced from members’ share capital.
The said association has adopted a contract growing scheme that has strengthened market performance and sustainability by engaging members as contract growers. Between July and December 2024, the association successfully sold 500 piglets and nurse sows, funding the development of a farm access road through income from pig sales and support from the landowner.
Mayor Clarita P. Sal-ongan of Tuba, Benguet, expressed gratitude for the support received and underscored the importance of sustaining the association. “We are truly fortunate to receive this support, so we must sustain the association to ensure that the trust and investment of the Department of Agriculture are not wasted. As for the road, we will draft a resolution to help improve the market access of this project,” she said.
Marlyn C. Tejero, Chief of the Regulatory Division, reminded the association of their commitment, “This initiative mirrors the implementation of INSPIRE projects in Barangay Tamac, Villaviciosa, and Abualan, San Juan in Abra. The office remains confident and hopeful that you will fulfill your responsibilities and uphold your commitments,” she reiterated.
Further, support for the project was also shown by local officials and stakeholders, including Tuba, Benguet Vice Mayor Maria L. Carantes, Councilors Eugene M. Gabino, William D. Abance, Reachelle C. Takinan, and Gloria Y. Paus, along with Mario M. Baucas, representing the Office of the Governor, and Purita Lesing from the Provincial Veterinary Office.
The turnover ceremony marked a significant step toward strengthening the swine industry and promoting sustainable agribusiness development in the region. By DLicuben
