An inception meeting between Benguet State University (BSU) and Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) for the project, “Enhancing the Productivity and Sustainability of Benguet Native Pig Production” was held at the Rogelio Dulay Colting (RDC) Hall on July 30, 2024. This was attended by BSU Project Leaders and personnel of the Livestock Research Division (LRD) of the DOST-PCAARRD. Possible issues and concerns were discussed to establish a solid foundation for the project implementation.

BSU President Felipe Salaing Comila expressed his gratitude to DOST-PCAARRD for partnering with the university and for their unwavering support. Constantino T. Sudaypan, Dean of the College of Agriculture, emphasized the college commitment to support researches that benefit the community. Likewise, the Director of the Accounting Office Imelda B. Galinato expressed her support for the project.

“We should go beyond publication, receiving awards out of research but extend the benefits of research to building sustainable livelihood, and for making significant contribution to the supply,” said Synan S. Baguio, Director of the LRD-PCAARRD to encourage the researchers.

Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres, BSU VP for Research and Extension, acknowledged the challenges faced by researchers but commended their dedication for finding solutions that address the community needs. He challenged the researchers to develop commercializable technology that would benefit the university. Lumbres also urged the administration to expedite the project's financial processes.

Josette San Luis from PCAARRD presented the DOST-GIA guidelines, outlining the necessary data submissions, implementation procedures, monitoring and other requirements for the project. Then, Mary Arnel D. Garcia, the project leader, presented the project's goals, expected outputs, and budgetary requirements.

A learning session followed, where the participants discussed various aspects of the project, including budget allocation, pig selection, funding sources, facility requirements, procurement procedures, biosecurity measures, sample collection, and deliverables.

The meeting concluded with a message of gratitude from study leader Ana B. Mendoza, thanking PCAARRD for the funding and the administration for their support.

With the collaboration between DOST-PCAARRD and BSU, this project is set to contribute for the growth and development of the Benguet native pig industry.//BTayaban