10/07/2025
Barangay Biosecurity Officers strengthened; eyeing for resilient agriculture
PRESENTACION, Camarines Sur — In a significant step towards strengthening agricultural resilience at the grassroots level, the Municipal Agriculture Office of Presentacion, Camarines Sur, successfully conducted a three-day Training on Barangay Biosecurity Officer last July 8–10, 2025. The initiative gathered 24 barangay kagawads chairing the Committee on Agriculture, alongside staff from the Municipal Agriculture Office and some Barangay Captain, in a concerted effort to improve local capacity for disease prevention and outbreak control, particularly in the context of African Swine Fever (ASF).
The training was spearheaded by Ms. Trysie-Ann R. Anciano, Officer-in-Charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office, with full support from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Presentacion, led by Hon. Mayor Jimmy Deleña.
On the first day, formal lectures were delivered by Dr. Claire Sales-Rivera and Dr. Rona P. Bernales of the Department of Agriculture Regional Office. Their presentations covered essential biosecurity principles, including disease transmission, early detection, ASF containment strategies, and the importance of biosecurity risk management. Participants gained valuable insights into the role of proactive measures and proper husbandry practices in minimizing threats to local livestock.
The second day featured lecture and hands-on practice facilitated by Dr. Karl Robert F. Ador, Science Research Specialist of Sorsogon Dairy Farm. Lectures revolved on swine health monitoring and surveillance and disease investigation. Through interactive field demonstrations, participants learned on blood sample collection. These practical exercises helped translate theory into applicable skills that will be vital in their barangays.
The final day of the training included an insightful discussion about outbreak management, Bantay ASF sa Barangay of Dr. Jomar M. Asada while husbandry practices was discussed by Suzette Dela Rama and were complemented with group sharing, and the graduation of the trainees.
In his message of support, Mayor Jimmy Deleña, represented by Sailito Corre, Chair on Committee on Agriculture, praised the participants' commitment and emphasized the importance of community-led efforts in safeguarding the agricultural livelihood of Presentacion.
This training marks a milestone in the municipality's fight against ASF and other livestock diseases. By empowering barangay officials to take the lead in biosecurity and outbreak management, Presentacion reinforces its capacity to detect, respond to, and prevent agricultural threats. The newly trained officers are now expected to implement localized strategies and raise awareness among their constituents, ensuring that biosecurity is upheld from the ground up.
“Grassroots biosecurity is not just an option — it’s a necessity. This training ensures that our barangays are not only aware but are actively involved in protecting our agricultural economy,” said Ms. Anciano.
As Presentacion takes this proactive stride, the LGU hopes to inspire neighboring municipalities to invest in similar capacity-building initiatives that align with national biosecurity and food security goals.
