LUNA, Apayao – The Regional Field Office of the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera (DA-RFO-CAR) together with the provincial government turned over three completed Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Repopulation and Expansion (INSPIRE) Program projects valued at 16.5 million pesos in Apayao on May 5-6, 2024.
The INSPIRE program is a key initiative of the DA-National Livestock Program, designed to enhance biosecurity and disease control measures while simultaneously supporting the repopulation and growth of the local swine industry. These efforts aim to restore the sector’s capacity to produce an ample supply of hogs and pork locally.
Beneficiaries of this intervention included Saranay Multi-Purpose Cooperative, New Cabatacan Multi-Purpose Cooperative, and People for Rural Empowerment Agriculture Cooperative. Each cooperative received a biosecure facility consisting of a perimeter fence, climate-controlled animal house, waste management system-biogas, basic farm equipment, shower area, initial stocks of piglets, feeds, and biologics, valued at PhP5.5 million each.
During the turnover ceremony, the Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Arlene M. Sagayo, emphasized the importance of responsibility and accountability that accompanies the project. She reiterated the importance of unity among the members of the FCAs which is the key towards a success story in the future.
Also, she mentioned the commitment of DA-CAR to support the cooperatives until they achieve success.
“I commit on behalf of the DA-RFO CAR that we will work with you on this project. We’ll support you all the way to its success. Let’s all turn this into a compelling story,” she expressed.
Further, Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. pledged support for the cooperatives in terms of marketing. He has partnered with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for training and the crafting of ordinances to support the project.
He expressed hope that these interventions would be successful to maximize government funds and benefit the province economically by creating jobs and supporting local meat supply.
Moreover, APCO-Apayao Raponcel Saguilot also emphasized to the farmer cooperatives associations (FCAs) the significance of adhering to the stipulations in their individual Operational Manuals as well as the accounting rules and regulations.
Representatives from the FCAs expressed their gratitude for the interventions, committing to maximize their potential and support each other. They thanked everyone involved in making the project possible, particularly the local governments and the regional office.
The turnover ceremonies were attended by Municipal Mayors Hon. Evelyn Martinez of Sta. Marcela, Hon. Hector Reuel Pascua of Pudtol, Vice-Mayor Randy Laoat of Pudtol, SB Members, Barangay Captains and officials, members of the FCAs, Asst. APCO Ernesto B. Parañal, Livestock Focal Person for Apayao Jay R. Sagario, Provincial Veterinarian Ralph M. Verzon, and Apayao Livestock Consultant Larry Puputi. By Leny D. Mendoza
