52 Bontoc folks affected by ASF get free chicken

By Christy Che-es and Alpine L. Killa

BONTOC, Mountain Province – Fifty-two farmers or backyard raisers in this capital town who were affected by African Swine Fever (ASF) were recipients of 1,040 heads of Kabir chicken and 936 kilos of starter feed on August 13 at the Provincial Veterinary Office. 
    Kabir chickens are similar to native chickens.
    It is ideal for meat conversion because of its rapid growth, good body conformation, and efficient feed conversion. 
    According to Administrative Officer IV Ross Kiat-ong from the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, each beneficiary received 20 chicks and 18 kilos of feed.
    The Bontoc local government through the OMAg monitored and validated farmers affected by ASF and requested assistance to partner government entities. 
    In response, the provincial government through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office funded the livelihood assistance for the said farmers. 
    Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey acknowledged the joint effort between the national, provincial, and municipal governments saying it will largely benefit farmers in the municipality. 
    "Since our province is not yet clear of the ASF, poultry farming is seen as a substitute for our protein needs so take care of the chicks that the government is giving for everyone to benefit from it," he added.
    A beneficiary said  the heads of chicken and starter she received will be an alternative livelihood. 
    Also present during the turnover was executive assistant Clement Sokoken who represented Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., personnel from the OMAg, and staff from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian.