Fast-tracked animal genetic improvements urged

MANILA  -A study commissioned by the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) recommended fast-tracking breeding activities and further promoting animal genetic improvement programs (GIPs) to improve the production of livestock and poultry.

PCAF, the Department of Agriculture’s policymaking arm for facilitating broad-based participatory processes, said the study also proposed sustaining capability-building of technicians, raisers, local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders as well as strengthening the recording of the management system among the industry.

Aside from scaling up information dissemination through multimedia platforms and other modalities, the document suggested conducting strategic research and management plans to address challenges.

PCAF also said they are pushing for developing a common database for GIPs and creating the National Animal Genetic Board to pursue genetic improvement program across livestock and poultry species both local and imported breeds.

The council tapped the Central Luzon State University to delve into various programs and initiatives of DA on the genetic improvement of livestock and poultry. It evaluated the outputs, outcomes and impacts of such undertakings as well as identified problems in implementation.

It observed concerns covering the improper breeding practices at the farm, gaps in monitoring and evaluating animal well-being, adaptability issues of imported animals, including transboundary diseases resulting in high mortality and population decline.

Apart from that, strategies for other animals focused on upgrading or crossbreeding, which may not be considered a true GIP. INQ