DOST studies viability of livestock biotechnologies

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Science and Technology is looking into the viability of livestock biotechnologies, particularly for water buffalo, cattle, goat, and swine.  

The study conducted by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, in connection with the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC)-funded project titled, Ex Ante Economic Analysis of the PCC Livestock Biotechnologies for Water Buffalo, Cattle, Goat, and Swine.

The project aims to determine the economic worth of livestock biotechnologies on reproduction, animal health and nutrition, and product development under the Philippine setting.

Field activities such as survey, interviews, and focus group discussions, as conducted by the council, aims to determine the current status and rate of adoption of biotechnologies for the four livestock commodities.

The expected output of the study includes knowledge, attitude, and perception on various biotechnologies that will be developed, current practices and management systems, costs and returns of raising these animals, and the issues and problems that could impede potential adoption.

The output is crucial in determining the economic viability of the PCC’s livestock biotechnologies.

The project team visited major livestock areas in the country, particularly in the provinces of Pangasinan, Cagayan, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro.