49 members of the Association of Goat Raisers of Odiongan (AGRO) have completed the training on raising small ruminants and producing organic fertilizer and concoction, a program conducted by the Technical Education And Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Romblon's Provincial Training Center in partnership with BPI Foundation, Inc.'s BPI TechVoc Training Program, Bayan Academy, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Odiongan
This eleven-day training was a prerequisite for them to receive a goat donated by the BPI Foundation. The initiative aims to empower the participants and promote organic agriculture in the community.
20 males and 29 females received their certificates for completing the training that may soon be used to get an Organic Agriculture Production NC II from TESDA.
Rochelle Zulueta, from TESDA Romblon, emphasized that these goats symbolize more than just gifts—they represent opportunities for the graduates to apply their newly acquired knowledge. By applying the skills learned during the training, they aspire to multiply the goat population, ultimately transforming it into a sustainable business venture.
Noel Tiu, the Program Manager of BPI Foundation, highlighted that the goat raisers were not only trained in raising goats but also equipped with financial management skills essential for the success of their goat production project.
Expressing their gratitude for the opportunity, several graduates shared their aspirations and plans for the future.
“As a beneficiary of the goats, I am grateful, especially now that the hog industry is facing challenges due to the African Swine Fever. My plan for the future, of course, now that we have been given a starting point, is to take care of the goats and increase their number. Since we have formed an association, our goal is to multiply them for meat, dairy, and milk production, and eventually sell them in the market,” according to Geraldine Cortina, acting secretary of AGRO.
“I hope that more training will be conducted for others because my plan regarding goat raising is to help lower the prices of goats in the market,” said AGRO member Ray Glori.
Meanwhile, the LGU of Odiongan is keen on giving more support to the graduates, including access to additional resources, to ensure their long-term success in organic goat production and entrepreneurship.
