Topnotch Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Margarito R. Andrade of the Banga Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) in Aklan is really into “chicks”, but of the ‘darag’ kind. He produces hardened 45-day-old darag chicks as a cooperator of PCARRD’s Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF) on darag or native chicken production.
Andrade, first runner-up in the 2008 search for outstanding MS, sells his darag chicks at P0.75/head. His farm is also capable of producing day-old chicks and ready-to-breed pullets/rooster.
Darag is the native chicken strain local to Western Visayas. It has established a niche market in the poultry industry in the area due to its unique quality of meat and distinctive taste.
Field day
During a field day held recently in Andrade’s farm, he discussed how artificial incubation, brooding, and use of indigenous feeding supplements, such as Marande leaves (Tricanthera gigantea), duckweed, and golden “kuhol” can improve native chicken production. In a tour of his farm, he demonstrated the operation of his invention, the AC-DC incubator, and the artificial brooder warmed by an electric bulb (See related story).
PCARRD Livestock Research Division Director Edwin C. Villar, who was in attendance, said: “The bottom line of the (STBF) project is for the Magsasaka Siyentista to showcase the improvement in his farm productivity and economic benefits brought about by the S&T (science and technology) interventions recommended (by the project).”
Joining Villar were farmers from Banga’s various barangays and officials and staff members of ASU, municipal government of Banga, Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC), and PCARRD.
Incidentally, along with PCARRD, WESVARRDEC, the Aklan State University (ASU), and FITS Center Banga are helping Andrade in his venture on darag.