Roxas City, Capiz—The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources, Research and Development and local partners aim to assist Darag native chicken growers in the Panay region improve their production and expand market.
“Feeding Darag native chicken requires minimal intervention,” Central Philippines University Dean Dr. Jaime C. Cabales told growers during the Pitching Technology Forum held at Capiz State University.
The forum was part of the three-day Farmers Industry Encounters through the Science and Technology Agenda featuring Region 6 commodities hosted by Visayas Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and Development Consortium.
Cabales recommended corn grits, “paco” (seaweeds), and “kangkong” (water spinach) as the most common home-mixed feeds aside from palay.
He also cautioned Darag growers in Western Visayas that abrupt changing of feeds stresses chickens, and may result in low egg production.
“Age, immune response, climate, and population density are among the factors to consider to prevent chicken from acquiring diseases,” said another resource speaker at the forum, Department of Agriculture Region 6 Regulatory Division Chief Dr. Jonic Natividad.
“Chickens are more prone to anorexia, ruffled feathers, and depression during wet season,” Natividad said.
Raisers should vaccinate their fowl, and deworming should be done every two months, he added.
Ana S. Celiz, Panay Darag Breeders Association officer, also discussed the process of production of eggs and breeders from incubation to hatching.
“PADABA can assist growers and help them properly manage the eggs until ready for market,” she said.
PCAARRD has provided funding for the research of WESVAARRDEC members for five commodities that included Darag chicken.
The council funded the purification process of the Darag breed that took several years.
Darag chicken is more nutritious and tastier compared to commercial chicken, the council said.
