PVO, CVO welcome new batch of FLS GEM

CITY OF BALANGA, BATAAN – Aiming to improve the production of goat in the province and in the region, the Provincial Government of Bataan thru the Provincial Veterinarian Office and the City Government of Balanga thru the City Veterinary Office in cooperation with the City of Balanga Small Ruminant Raisers Association (COBSRRA) initiated the opening ceremony of the Farmer Livestock School in Goat Enterprise Management (FLS GEM) held at the Audio Visual Room, Balanga City Hall, this morning, March 31.

The President of COBSRRA Mr. Exequiel Espiritu welcomed the participants composed of farmers from around the province and students from Bataan Peninsula State University Abucay Campus taking up agricultural courses. Provincial Agricultural Center Chief Mrs. Trinidad Tallorin vowed to support the participants if they really want to pursue this venture.

Mrs. Liza Mallari, Regional Livestock Coordinator from Department of Agriculture Regional Office expressed her hopes that the participants will finish the training. Meanwhile, Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee chair in Agriculture Mr. Anselmo Sanchez, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee chair in Agriculture Mr. Jose Villapando Sr., National President of the Federation of Goat and Sheep Producers of the Philippines Inc. (FGASPPI) Dr. Noel Soliman, Provincial Veterenarian Dr. Alberto Venturina and City Veterinarian Dr. Billy Andrew Samson graced the event.

FGASPPI Tarlac Federated President Mrs. Marissa Abad Santos discussed the business aspect and profitability of goat raising, while Dr. Soliman took the floor again to present the current status of the industry and future trends.

On the other hand, Provincial Livestock Inspector Mr. Louie Tripon detailed the Goat and Sheep Meat Production. Visitors from Small Ruminant Center from Central Luzon State University headed by Ms. Lenielyn Manalili shared her expertise on the type of goat production based on level of management and investment extensive, tethering and free ranging.

Said FLS GEM will run for 28 weeks with a half day lecture and workshop per week.