THE ILOILO Science and Technology University will establish a multiplier farm for native pigs and goats in its campus in Leon town this year.

“ISAT-U submitted a letter of intent to the Department of Agriculture requesting funding assistance for the establishment of the project in support of the mandate of the university for instruction, research, and extension,” Glenn Mariano, head of the livestock program of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit-6, said.

Under the memorandum of agreement signed by DA-RFU-6 executive director Dr. Peter Sobrevega and ISAT-U president Dr. Raul Muyong, the Agriculture department will release P1.3 million under the national livestock program while the university will provide a fund of P1.2 million.

The allocation from the DA will cover the procurement of stocks, establishment of pasture and housing facilities, purchase of tools and equipment, feeds, veterinary drugs, and biologics.

Mariano said 30 goats, consisting of 26 does and four bucks, and 12 swine stocks of 10 gilts and two boars will be reared using smart and organic production technologies in the farm.

“The multiplier farm will be put up within the school’s agroforestry demo farm. Around 2,000 square meter-area will be allotted for goat-raising and 3,350 square meters for swine production,” he added.

ISAT-U, on the other hand, will shoulder the salary of the three workers in the initial six-month farm operation and provide the appropriate project care and maintenance.

The town’s agriculture office will provide technical assistance to qualified farmer recipients of the livestock dispersal project once the multiplier farm is in full swing.