IN a training room turned makeshift laboratory in San Agustin town in Isabela province, farmers measured, mixed and calculated how to make the most efficient feeds.
Over three days from May 26 to 28, 2026, participants from San Agustin learned how to turn locally available crops and by-products into nutritionally balanced animal feeds using science-based methods and practical techniques.
The Skills Enhancement Training on Feed Formulation for Sustainable Livelihood was conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Isabela office through its Provincial Science and Technology Office, led by Provincial Director Rosario Danga.
Resource persons Mark Joker Marcos and Alford Glenn Mangoba of the College of Agriculture of the Isabela State University guided farmers through the principles of livestock nutrition.
Sessions covered balancing protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals; identifying locally available feed ingredients; and calculating feed mixtures that meet animal requirements while reducing costs.
Farmers worked through practical exercises, formulating their own feed blends and presenting them for evaluation.
Danga said the training forms part of DOST’s continuing efforts to empower farmers through science, technology and innovation.
“By providing farmers with the knowledge and skills to formulate their own feeds using locally available materials, we are helping them become more self-reliant, competitive, and resilient,” she said.
The initiative aligns with the national government’s directive to modernize Philippine agriculture and improve food security through innovation and technology.
Danga said the training aims to equip farmers with practical solutions to increase productivity, reduce production costs, and enhance rural incomes.
Beyond technical instruction, the DOST Isabela office introduced government programs and support services available to farmers to strengthen livelihood enterprises and encourage the adoption of technology-driven agricultural solutions.
Participants engaged in discussions and hands-on activities throughout the three days. The activity concluded with the presentation of each group’s feed formulation, an exercise that reinforced technical competencies and confidence in applying science-based practices on their farms.
Underscoring the role of capacity-building in advancing agricultural productivity, Danga emphasized that “empowering farmers with practical and science-based skills contributes directly to food security, sustainable livelihoods, and rural development.”
She added that the training reflects DOST’s continuing commitment to harnessing science, technology, and innovation “to address the needs of local farmers and contribute to sustainable agricultural development in Isabela.”
The activity was held in partnership with the office of Isabela’s Fourth Congressional District, led by Rep. Joseph Tan, who reaffirmed support for programs that promote inclusive economic growth and improve the quality of life of farming communities in the province.