DILIMAN, Quezon City—Swine is the largest among the livestock industries in the country. Recognizing this, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) conducted a free seminar to help individuals interested in this venture.

Experts invited to share the latest technologies in swine-raising and processing include Werner Decena, head of the Research Unit of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Quezon Province. He presented the production aspect of native pig as well as the guide in animal husbandry, livestock production essentials, and opportunities in pig farming.

Apart from this, Decena discussed the characteristics needed from those who want to engage in swine production. He also encouraged the participants to try the organic pig business.

Stressing the opportunities offered by the changing market especially to small-holder farmers in the rural areas, he noted: “A lot of people have become health-conscious and want organic products. They also prefer native pig lechon.”

To provide the participants insights on the processing aspect, Maria Salve Chavez, head of the Meat Processing Unit of the Bureau of Animal Industry, led a hands-on activity for processing pork meat into tocino and longganisa.

Meanwhile, after hearing the lectures from the experts, Roel Montañano from Biñan, Laguna was instantly motivated to plan for a new livelihood. With support from his sister, Montañano has decided to venture into organic pig-raising.

“After this, we will be looking around to see where we could buy organic pigs to start the business,” he remarked.

Around 100 individuals from Metro Manila and CaLaBarZon attended the free seminar held last May 24, 2019 at the ATI Rural Development and Education Center in this city.