On February 28th, 2023, the Lezo Livestock and Poultry Raisers Association held a Mass Oath-Taking Ceremony and Seminar at the Municipality of Lezo. The event was also marked by the launch of the Livestock and Poultry Fair, aimed at promoting sustainable livestock and poultry farming in the country.
During the event, Mayor Mary Lenette R. Fernandez welcomed distinguished guests, including Vice Mayor George Villarubia, SB Member Ulysses Irabon, SB Member Romy Abello, DILG-MLGOO Emmie Cawaling, Municipal Agriculturist Desirie R. Orquiola, and invited speakers Dr. Joseph Lachica, Dr. Stanley Pedrigosa, Mrs. Marwin Culaba, and Mr. Herman Opada, the President of the LLPRA.
Mayor Fernandez recognized the commitment of the local and national government to promote sustainable livestock and poultry farming in the country. The Livestock and Poultry Trade Fair, which carried the theme “Moving towards sustainability,” was a call to action for all participants to work towards building a more sustainable and resilient future for the industry.
The Department of Agriculture, through the Bureau of Animal Industry, has been implementing various programs and projects to promote the growth and development of the livestock and poultry industry, such as the Livestock and Poultry Program and the Integrated Livestock and Corn Production Project. These initiatives aim to improve productivity and efficiency on farms and increase the income of smallholder farmers, thereby contributing to the overall food security of the country.
Mayor Fernandez also commended the Lezo Livestock and Poultry Raisers Association for their efforts in organizing backyard livestock and poultry farms. Such efforts are part of the national and local government programs aimed at ensuring local food sustainability.
Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the African Swine Fever and avian influenza outbreaks, Mayor Fernandez expressed confidence that with the support of the government and community leaders, the industry will overcome these challenges and emerge stronger.
Finally, Mayor Fernandez congratulated the newly-elected officers of the Lezo Livestock and Poultry Association and its chapters in the 12 barangays. She expressed confidence that under their leadership, the association will continue to flourish and contribute to the growth and development of the industry.
The Mass Oath-Taking Ceremony and Seminar and the launch of the Livestock and Poultry Fair were well-attended, with participants expressing their commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible farming practices in the municipality. (By Ernan Baldomero)