The Department of Agriculture IV-CALABARZON (DA-4A) distributed a total of P2.1M worth of poultry-based livelihood assistance to four farmers’ associations directly benefitting at least 90 farmers in the region on May 5 to 20.

The series of distributions, spearheaded by the Regional Livestock Banner Program consisted of ducks, feeds, and incubators to help the farmers establish or strengthen their respective duck farms.

The Sitio Bathala Livestock Farmers’ Association in Tanay Rizal, and the Pangkalahatang Samahan ng Magsasaka sa Siniloan (PASAMASI) in Siniloan, Laguna both received 1,200 heads of duck, 216 bags of duck layer feeds, and one incubator unit.

Meanwhile, Cawongan Farmers’ Association in Padre Garcia and Bonliw Farmers’ Association in San Luis, Batangas received 880 and 550 heads of duck, respectively.

“Malaki po ang maitutulong po sa amin ng mga ito,. Unti-unti po ay mapaparami din namin ang mga ito,” said Mr. Danny Naag, the Secretary of the Sitio Bathala Livestock Farmers’ Association.

According to DA-4A Livestock Banner Program Coordinator Dr. Jerome G. Cuasay, the provided assistance aims to provide additional livelihood to the farmers-beneficiaries, increase their income, and help ensure availability of poultry-based products in the region. #### (Uriel Martin Ramilo, DA-4A RAFIS)