To support the reintegration of returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), there is a need to diversify livelihood options for example around livestock raising. One of the promising aspects in livestock raising is chicken production.

On 12 – 14 October 2021, a training titled, “Ato ni Bai: A Training on Free Range Chicken Production for OFW,” was conducted in JJ's Seafood Village, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. A total of 19 OFWs from the municipalities of Alburquerque, Antequera, Balilihan, Candijay, Clarin, Corella, Guindulman, Lila, Loboc, Loon, Maribojoc, Sierra Bullones, and Tagbilaran City. These OFWs were mostly working as domestic helpers, seaman, barista, electrical technicians and aircraft maintenance.

This training aims to educate participants on chicken production as well as medication of the different diseases to come up with a profitable chicken enterprise. During the three-day training, participants learned about the status of chicken and swine industry in the province; chicken production technologies; different breeds of chicken; free-range chicken production technologies; recording system for chicken production and economics of chicken production.

“I have learned so many things from this training. Among the learnings I have gained, one that I found interesting was the breeding strategies. I have been trying to raise chickens and I realized that my ways were wrong. I also learned the bad effects of inbreeding in chicken,” said Edgardo P. Doria – one of the training participants.

Joemelyn A. Sumagang from ATI RTC 7, Reyland P. Jabonillo a private practitioner, and Meydallyn D. Paman, DVM from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian in Bohol shared their expertise on the topics discussed as resource persons while Jovanie Picot served as member of the training management team.

Should there be any clarifications or inquiries around this training, you may contact Jorge F. Trinidad, Project Officer, through his email at jftrinidad64@yahoo.com.