Apayao: Three years after obtaining authority to use a government-funded technology to make feed pellets, the Apayao Livestock-Agriculture Cooperative (ALAC) is confident it would be able to multiply its production of animal feeds not just for its members but also for the public. Edison Orus, who represented the ALAC during the 'TechTalk' session of the 2025 North Luzon Innovation and Technology Transfer Summit here Thursday, said they look forward to increasing their production to about 1,000 kg. per month from the current 711 kg. per year of forage-based feed pellets.
According to Philippines News Agency, ALAC expects the extra production to be sold to the public, generating income for the cooperative. Orus shared that the cooperative aims to produce 1,000 kg. of pellets per month, acquire a mechanical dryer, increase the production area of raw materials, and establish more market linkages with farm suppliers. This expansion is expected to provide more than 100 members with a reliable food source for their sheep and goats throughout the year.
Orus highlighted that their feeds have a shelf life of at least six months, ensuring food availability for animals during rainy seasons. He noted that with the assistance of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - Apayao, ALAC was able to collaborate with the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) for technology adoption in June 2023. This development followed the provincial government's initiative of distributing sheep and goats to residents as an additional livelihood.
In nearly three years since acquiring the technology, ALAC has produced over 2,000 kg. of nutritionally balanced feed pellets, which have been laboratory-analyzed. These pellets are made using locally sourced crude protein from ipil leaves, rice bran, and other raw materials, and are sold to co-op members. Orus emphasized the importance of feed pellets in Apayao's generally wet climate, where consistent rains make animal grazing challenging.
The technology adoption has ensured meat production for the people of Apayao and income for ALAC members, while also providing community service opportunities for probationers. Orus expressed hope that with ongoing support from the provincial government, they can expand the land area planted with ipil-ipil trees, a crucial raw material source for the feed pellets.
Debbie Mananquil, the Apayao provincial science and technology officer, stated that their agency supported ALAC in adopting the technology, facilitating the linkage with CLSU and providing training. She mentioned that they still have access to the technology enhancement program fund, alongside assistance from other agencies, to achieve the goal of producing 1,000 kg. of feed pellets per month.
DOST Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang previously urged the use, commercialization, and adoption of government-funded technologies to benefit the public.
