A remarkable story spread quickly throughout Pangasinan about a woman from Alaminos known for her extraordinary skill in impregnating buffaloes! Word of Olivia Palazo’s expertise quickly reached villages, with farmers eager to meet the renowned woman who could help them improve their livestock.

Olivia Palazo is no ordinary woman; she is the only female village-based artificial insemination technician (VBAIT) in the entire province. Her skill in artificial insemination (AI) is so exceptional that she’s become a local celebrity, a name known across the western part of Pangasinan. Her last name, Palazo—meaning “arrow” in English—seems to be destined for her, reflecting her precision and expertise in this field.

Her reputation as a skilled AI technician was paved when she was awarded the title “Huwarang Juana sa Kalabawan” at the 9th National Carabao Conference in 2023. Additionally, the local government of Alaminos recognized her for her significant contribution to the development of the livestock industry in the province.

Olivia’s weekly schedule is packed with appointments, as she and her husband, Manuel, travel tirelessly across the villages of western Pangasinan, offering AI services to farmers in need.

“Whether it’s good or bad weather, night or dawn, I can’t say no to farmers. Once the estrus cycle passes, it’s too late to inseminate; it’s lost opportunity,” she explains.

In one day, Olivia can service anywhere from three to nine buffaloes. For distant locations, she charges PHP1,000 and PHP800 for areas nearby.

“When a farmer can’t afford the fee, I accept whatever they can offer. It’s about helping them, not just the money,” Olivia shares. But Olivia is not only an AI technician; she is a passionate leader. As president of the Alaminos City Carabao Raisers Association (ACCRA), she envisions a thriving future for carabao farmers in the area. In an effort to uplift the ACCRA members, Olivia offers her AI services for free to association members.

“My greatest fulfillment comes from seeing farmers happy, every time they receive news that their carabaos are pregnant. To bear witness of their joy is what I consider my greatest reward,” she says.

Olivia’s commitment to education also shines through. Though she is a former teacher, her love for learning and teaching never waned. She attended a training at the DA-PCC at Don Mariano Marcos State University (DMMMSU) to become a facilitator for the Farmer Livestock School on Dairy Buffalo Production (FLS-DBP). As one of the first facilitators in Pangasinan, Olivia has empowered many farmers with essential knowledge in this aspect.

For Olivia, courage was the key to overcoming her initial hesitation. Over time, she gained confidence and proved that women, too, can succeed as VBAITs.

“I may be a small woman, but I can perform the same work as any man,” she says proudly.

Though Olivia is a dedicated VBAIT and a respected leader, her family remains her top priority. At home, she is a loving wife to Manuel and a devoted mother to their only child, Elijah Noelle.

“Sundays are important to us. We go to church, enjoy lunch, and have dinner together. My family’s support is my strength,” Olivia says.

Today, Olivia is reaping the fruits of her hard work in AI. Her family has built their dream house, purchased their dream car, and can afford to send their child to college. Olivia’s journey is one of perseverance, skill, and love for her community—and she continues to inspire farmers and women across Pangasinan.