Residents of Batanes will have a potential livelihood opportunity through the introduction of the genetically-superior breeder duck called ItikPINAS developed with the support of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
To introduce the native duck breed, 22 representatives from the private sector, researchers, and agricultural personnel in Batanes were trained on Breeding Selection and Hatchery Management for Sustainable ItikPINAS Breeder Farm Performance on April 14-15, 2026 at the Batanes State College in Basco, Batanes.
This training serves as the initial rollout of the technology in the province, opening new opportunities for duck production in an area where such enterprise has not been widely practiced. With Batanes’ unique climate and geographic conditions, the introduction of ItikPINAS is expected to increase local agricultural activities, provide an additional source of income for farmers, and contribute to improved food security in the province.
Ms. Araceli G. Puno, Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST-PSTO Batanes, opened the training session with a positive tone, emphasizing the importance of innovation and education in agricultural practices. She also highlighted the potential of ItikPINAS as a valuable asset for local farmers and the broader agricultural community.
The training featured a lineup of esteemed resource persons, including Dr. Synan S. Baguio, Livestock Research Division Director (LRD) of DOST-PCAARRD and his staff members namely: Ms. Glenda P. Fule, Dr. Ronilo O. De Castro, and Mr. Alfredo Ryenel M. Parungao. Mr. Jorge Michael D. Dominguez of the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) also served as a resource person.
The first day of the training provided participants with valuable insights into the economic aspects of ItikPINAS production. Discussions covered conservation, improvement, and profitable utilization of ItikPINAS; income potential and challenges and opportunities within the industry.
The concluding day of the training started with in depth exploration about the breeding and selection protocols, importance of recording system, production management and feeding system for ItikPINAS. This session was led by experts–Mr. Dominguez, Mr. Parungao, and Dr. De Castro, who provided valuable insights and answers to the participants' concern about the best practices for breeding and selecting quality ducks and drakes. The session provided a comprehensive understanding of the practices necessary for breeding the ItikPINAS. Following this, the focus shifted to production management–from incubation to the breeding stage of ItikPINAS. The session also covered feeding management techniques–balancing the diet and incorporating local feed resources to enhance sustainability and lessen the input cost of the production.