Philippine native animal development bill filed

AAMBIS-OWA Party-list Representative Sharon Garin is renewing her call for the passage of House Bill 2558, otherwise known as the Philippine Native Animal Development Act which seeks to increase the income of small-scale farmers by promoting the scientific propagation of native animals in the country, increasing the contribution of native animals to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), and developing farming standards and good practices on native animals.

In line with the Constitution’s mandate to support indigenous, appropriate, and self-reliant scientific and technological capabilities, the bill highlights the creation of the Philippine Native Animal Development Center (PNADC), National Livestock and Poultry Genetics Board (NLGP) and Native Animal Regional Centers (NARSC).

Garin explains that although native animals have provided valuable contributions in the cultural, social, and economic status of farming communities in the rural areas, these animals have not been given special attention unlike other poultry and livestock products.

She added that major setbacks have been identified in the slow growth rate and inconsistencies in production involving native animals.

If enacted into law, PNADC shall be steered by the Department of Agriculture (DA). A six-year development framework for Philippine native animals shall also be crafted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with the help of native animal growers’ cooperatives and organizations, local government units (LGUs), and private sector.

The Framework shall serve as a guide to the formulation and implementation of plans, programs and projects of PNADC.

The NLGP, on the other hand, shall set the medium and long-term breeding objectives for all economically important domestic livestock and poultry in the Philippines and shall be responsible for the crafting of guidelines and procedures for the recognition of breeds and the establishment of breed registries.

Native animals are considered indigenous to a given region or ecosystem and have developed unique physical characteristics and behavioral patterns that enable them to survive or reproduce under their respective natural environment with minimum human intervention.

“As native animals continue to generate additional income for small-scale farmers and rural dwellers, it is only imperative to establish and support an institution that will promote its development in the country,” Garin explained.

The bill is pending with the Committee on Government Reorganization since 31 July 2019.