ISUFST to receive P2.5M  ‘Goat Multiplier’ from DA

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DINGLE, Iloilo – The Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas (DA-WV) and the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) will celebrate a significant milestone in local agricultural development with the turnover of a P2.5 million assistance to the university’s Goat Multiplier Farm Project on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Bongloy Farm, Dingle, Iloilo.

This initiative, part of the “Building Resilience in Developing Goat Multiplier Enterprise-BRIDGE” program, aims to boost goat production through superior genetics and enhanced farming techniques, ultimately augmenting farmer incomes in the region.

The ceremony, which will be attended by ISUFST officials, municipal mayors, agriculturists, livestock technicians, and farmer representatives from several communities, including Dingle, Pototan, Banate, Zarraga, and Iloilo City, recognizes the crucial role of these local government units as prospective partners in propagating the multiplier effect of goat production across farm cluster areas.

Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, underscored the project’s significance, stating, “This project is not just a step, but a leap forward in our agricultural capabilities. It’s a testament to our commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development and a beacon of our dedication to advancing local agriculture.”

The event will feature an array of dignitaries, including Usec. Deogracias Victor B. Savellano, Undersecretary for Livestock at the Department of Agriculture (DA), who is tasked to hand over the project officially. The ceremony will also be graced by Dr. Noli L. Gerona, ISUFST Dean of the College of Agriculture at ISUFST, Dr. Rodelyn Caro, Goat Multiplier Project Leader, and Mr. Glenn L. Mariano, DA-Western Visayas Assistant Division Chief of the Field Operation Division.

It is important to note that the DA-WV has made a firm commitment through a memorandum of agreement earlier inked to release funds upon ISUFST’s submission of the necessary documentation. This commitment ensures that the project’s implementation aligns with the outlined goals and complies with all legal and administrative regulatory requirements, providing a solid financial backbone for the project’s success and sustainability.

The turnover ceremony will conclude with a ribbon-cutting by Engr. Rex D. Diaz, Campus Administrator of the San Enrique Campus, signaling the official commencement of operations at the new facility and a networking fellowship to foster future collaborations among stakeholders. (Text by Herman Lagon of PAMCO; Photos by Dr. Alma Locara, Dr. Rodelyn Caro, and Golden Grains Publications)