30th Hog Congress opens in Iloilo City

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., and Senator Mark A. Villar graced the opening of the 30th Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits on April 18 at the Iloilo Convention Center, Iloilo City. The Pork Federations of the Philippines Inc. (PFPI) and the National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc. (NFHFI) collaborated to organize the conference, providing a platform for seasoned professionals and newcomers to share their experiences, knowledge, and best practices in the industry.

Centered on the theme “United for Inclusive Growth in Pork Production towards Food Security and Sovereignty,” the three-day event featured trade exhibitions showcasing the latest advancements in veterinary products, cutting-edge equipment, hog-related services, and free seminars on various topics, all aimed at enhancing the productivity and profitability of all pork producers.

Secretary Laurel, in his message, lauded the resilience, dedication, and unity of pork producers from across the Philippines, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration in achieving food security.

“This congress underscores the indispensable role of the community and all stakeholders in achieving food security for our nation by working together to ensure that every Filipino has access to safe, nutritious, and locally-produced pork. If we could produce more pork, we could reduce our importation. Our goal also embodies the DA’s stride towards abundant agriculture across the first economy. Your commitment to excellence in pork production benefits your livelihoods and contributes to our nation’s collective well-being and prosperity,” he shared.

Secretary Laurel, citing the Hog Congress as a premier venue for invaluable exchanges related to the industry, announced that the DA is about to roll out the Cold Examination Facilities for Agriculture (CEFA) in eight locations nationwide mid-this year. The CEFA, a significant development, is being established to prevent the smuggling of imported agricultural commodities and the entry of transboundary agricultural diseases, ensuring the safety and quality of locally-produced pork.

Meanwhile, Senator Mark A. Villar said swine accounted for 55% of the total animal industry in the Philippines, making it the biggest contributor. As of the end of September 2023, the country’s total swine inventory was estimated at 9.86 million, with 67.5% coming from small farms and the remaining 29.2% from commercial and semi-commercial farms.

“If you want to create jobs in the countryside and agriculture to progress, we need the swine industry to be healthy,” said Senator Villar, who assured the stakeholders that the government, particularly the DA, is optimizing programs and projects to revive the hog industry.

PFPI Chairman Nicanor M. Briones, President Ronaldo E. Tambago, NFHFI Chairman Chester Warren Y. Tan, and Vice Chairman Alfred Ng were the other vital personalities who led the opening of the program and trade fair and the ceremonial lechon choppings.###Texts by SMHToreno & Photos by SMHToreno and KDCaldina/DA-RAFIS 6