Pangasinan seeks funds for livestock program

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan–The office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OVP) here is closely coordinating with the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) for fund to augment the province’s livestock breeding program and the animal dispersal program.

Dr. Benedicto Perez, provincial veterinarian, said the move is to intensify its various programs this year in line with the thrust of Gov. Victor Agbayani aimed to increasing the income of the Pangasinenses.

Perez said Agbayani has asked for an action plan which may include new programs and projects to be launched by the OPV this year.

The provincial veterinarian said that one area to be strengthened is the Barangay Livestock Breeding Program to improve animal stock and to further perk up the local livestock industry, adding his office plans to boost its supplies of disinfectant and other medicines to check possible outbreak of animal diseases in the province.

Last year, the OPV was able to distribute 2,291 head of cattle, swine, goat, and chicken to a number of beneficiaries in several towns and cities.

Perez said they also conducted extension services and training programs among farmers and local residents to boost the livestock markets and further educate the farmers on modern breeding technology and management and disease control.

The OPV was also cited late last year by the National Foot-And —Mouth-Disease task force for its success in eradicating the dreaded animal disease in the province. — Cesar Ramirez