Guimaras State University (GSU), in collaboration with the Potato Systems Research and Training Center, Inc. (PSRTC) and the Guimaras Foursquare Gospel Church, held a training session on Organic Feed Formulation and Utilization in Maabay, Sibunag, on June 15, 2023. Part of the Guimaras Livelihood Empowerment Program (GLEP), the event aimed to support community livelihoods by combining spiritual growth with practical training in organic feed production.

The training began with an opening prayer and remarks from Dr. Julius T. Vergara, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences. Led by Dr. Victoria Demonteverde of PSRTC, the program covered organic feed production techniques for swine and poultry enterprises. Ms. Erma T. Conde conducted the first session, teaching participants about organic poultry feed formulation using locally available ingredients.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed among GSU, the Foursquare Gospel Church, and PSRTC, strengthening their commitment to this initiative. The afternoon session featured Dr. Vergara’s hands-on demonstration of organic swine feed formulation, where participants learned to operate a pelletizer machine.

The event concluded with certificates of appreciation for participants and a survey to determine future training needs. This initiative is part of GLEP’s commitment to empowering local communities with sustainable agricultural practices, ultimately enhancing productivity and income potential. The training supports the Sustainable Development Goal of “Zero Hunger” by educating participants in various management practices for organic poultry, swine, and small ruminant production, further strengthening their livelihoods.