A three-day training course on Ensuring Sustainable Production of Bolinao Native Chicken Through Organized Breeding and Production Strategies was conducted on May 26–28, 2026 at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Batac City, Ilocos Norte. This is part of the continuing efforts of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) to promote sustainable native chicken production.
The training gathered 26 participants composed of researchers, extension workers, agricultural personnel, and private-sector stakeholders interested in native chicken production and management. The activity aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in organized breeding, production management, biosecurity, and record-keeping systems to support the sustainable production of the Bolinao native chicken in the Ilocos region.
MMSU Director for Research Dionisio S. Bucao welcomed the participants. Dr. Marites R. Dayo, Senior Science Research Specialist and Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) Manager for Poultry of DOST-PCAARRD’s Livestock Research Division (LRD), gave the training overview.
chicken production. Discussion topics included: Marketing principles and cost-return analysis, presented by LRD’s Science Research Specialist II Glenda P. Fule; Conservation and improvement of native chickens by LRD Director Synan S. Baguio; and Production management, incubation, hatchery management by Mr. Herald Nygel F. Bautista of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB); and Feeding systems by LRD’s Supervising Science Research Specialist Ronilo O. De Castro.
Breeding and production strategies essential for improving flock performance were also discussed. Participants learned about establishing a sustainable native chicken enterprise from Dr. Carl Dean A. Litigio, ZamPen native chicken entrepreneur and owner of Sikwate House; breeding and selection methods for continuous genetic improvement from Dr. Baguio; importance of farm and individual recording systems from Mr. Bautista; biosecurity and disease control from Dr. Dayo, as well as practical applications in the production and breeding of Darag native chickens.
The training concluded with a farm visit to MMSU’s Bolinao native chicken production site, allowing participants to observe actual farm operations and gain firsthand exposure to breeding and management practices discussed during the lectures.
Through the activity, participants strengthened their understanding of organized breeding, proper husbandry practices, record-keeping systems, biosecurity measures, and sustainable production strategies. The training is expected to contribute to the improvement of native chicken productivity, profitability, and genetic conservation while supporting rural livelihoods and food security.