The DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Central Luzon State University (DA-PCC at CLSU) hosted the Artificial Insemination (AI) Convergence and Nurturing event with the theme “Accelerating Calf Production through Artificial Insemination and Bull Entrustment Program” at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology on March 12, 2025.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Ericson Dela Cruz, center director of DA-PCC at CLSU, strongly promoted the use of AI in breeding and highlighted the critical role of AI technicians in improving breeding practices and enhancing the genetic quality of buffalo herds.

Dr. Apolinario Salazar, Training Specialist III, emphasized that the primary goal of DA-PCC is to enhance the carabao population not only in Region III but across the country, making them a valuable source of meat, milk, and hide.

Dr. Edwin Atabay, DA-PCC OIC deputy executive director, commended the DA-PCC at CLSU for its significant contributions to calf production, artificial insemination, and milk production. He expressed his gratitude for their reliable support in these areas and thanked them for organizing the said activity.

Erwin DC. Encarnacion, DA-PCC at CLSU’s AI coordinator, presented an overview of the AI status and achievements in Region III over the past three years. He highlighted the number of active local government units and village-based AI technicians, as well as the contributions of AI in the region, including the number of calves produced.

Ronaldo Salazar, bull entrustment program coordinator, provided an update on the program’s status. He reported that a total of 64 bulls have been distributed in Region III from 2022 to 2024. Specifically, 23 bulls were loaned out in 2022, 18 in 2023, and another 23 in 2024.

Nomer Garcia, senior science research specialist and head of forage and pasture, expressed his gratitude to everyone for their participation and cooperation. He encouraged all to continue supporting the Carabao Development Program and to advocate for its success for the benefit of the farmers.

The activity also included lectures on “Strategies in Accelerating Buffalo Calf Production," presented by Dr. Atabay and "Female Reproductive Organ Monitoring: A Practical Guide for AI in Water Buffaloes" delivered by Dr. Peregrino Duran, Scientist I.

An open forum, led by Arman Anyayahan, assistant AI coordinator and AI technician, was held to provide attendees with the opportunity to raise issues, concerns, and suggestions for improving AI practices. Experts addressed these concerns by offering clear and helpful information to the technicians.

Additionally, a pledge of commitment was made, symbolizing the dedication of everyone involved, including the technicians and the DA-PCC staff at CLSU, to work towards the improvement of the carabao industry. This pledge also represents their commitment and responsibility to fulfill their obligations.

Certificates and incentives were also presented to outstanding AI technicians with the highest calf drop rates. The recipients were Lito R. Lopez, Larry Deonoso, Luisito Q. Espiritu, Eduardo B. Manuson, Arman P. Anyayahan, and Antonio N. Rutaquio