BARANGAY Tuburan had a special event on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. They started building their own safe place for livestock called a biosecured animal facility.
“This event marked an important step in the city’s fight against the African Swine Fever (ASF),” said City Mayor’s Office Chief of Staff Shiela Lumbatan.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by City Administrator Atty. Roy Hilario Raagas, who represented Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy, along with other key individuals.
The said officials were Regional Technical Director Carlota Madriaga from the regional Department of Agriculture, City Veterinarian Dr. Perla Asis, Nena Bae Rose Lumandong of the CSWD, and Tuburan Punong Barangay Roy Yañez.
Lumbatan said the funding for this project, which amounted to P10 million, was provided by DA-10 under the Integrated National Swine Production Initiative for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE Program).
The program aims to support regions that have been hit hard by ASF, according to Lumbatan.
“It is hoped that this facility will provide a safe and secure environment for swine production, thereby helping to control the spread of the disease,” she said.
Dir. Madriaga disclosed that the P10 million budget includes the cost of 300 piglets and feed, which will be supplied once the facility is completed.
“This is a significant boost for local farmers, who will be able to raise their pigs in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of ASF infection,” Madriaga explained.
However, Lumbatan clarified that Mayor Klarex’s commitment to supporting the local agriculture industry is evident in his recent contribution of an additional P5 million to the biosecure swine facility project, on top of the P10 million already allocated by the DA-10.
“This demonstrates his dedication to uplifting farmers in the city as well as in the region,” said Lumbatan adding especially during these challenging times of the ASF crisis and the ongoing pandemic.
Throughout his tenure, Lumbatan also said Mayor Klarex has consistently shown a genuine interest in advancing the welfare of the city’s farmers.
She said that the mayor recognizes the vital role they play in the local economy and understands the difficulties they face due to the ASF crisis and the pandemic.
“His (Uy) decision to contribute to the swine facility project stems from his desire to provide farmers with safe and controlled environments for pig rearing, reducing the risk of ASF infection and improving overall production, according to Lumbatan.
“The Mayor’s actions reveal his long-term vision for the city’s farming community,” shared Lumbatan.
She added that the establishment of the biosecure swine facility not only helps farmers recover from the impact of ASF and the pandemic but also equips them with the necessary tools for future economic stability and success.
“By investing in the agricultural sector, Mayor Klarex ensures the resilience and sustainability of the city’s food supply chain, safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and the food security of its residents,” Lumbatan added.
Dir. Madriaga thanked Mayor Klarex for his strong support of the program.
Lawyer Raagas also conveyed the gratitude of Mayor Klarex towards the DA officials who constantly monitor the city’s agricultural situation and provide substantial projects for the farmers.
“This collaboration between local and national government entities is crucial for the success of agricultural programs,” said Raagas.
The city hopes that, through this initiative, local backyard hog raisers will fully recover from the losses incurred due to ASF, according to Raagas.
He said that the biosecure swine facility represents a new chapter for Tuburan’s agricultural sector, promising a more secure and prosperous future for its pig farming industry.
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