The Kalinga State University Yookah Native Pig Project led by Ms. Sharmaine Codiam and the Philippine Carabao Center inked a memorandum of agreement for a sustained collaboration on PCC’s project on Genetic Structure Analysis and Development of Genetic Protocols for Traceability of Philippine Native Pig Populations, led by the project leader, Dr. Esther B. Flores. It was held at the Research and Extension Training Center on April 24, 2025.
Said MOA was signed by the university president, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor with the vice president for Research, Development and Extension Training, Dr. Lope T. Buen, representing Kalinga State University and the Philippine Carabao Center, an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture, represented by the GSA_NPIG project leader, Dr. Ester B. Flores. To stand as witnesses were the team from the Philippine Carabao Center, Director for Research, Ms. Brenda Lumines, Director for Extension, Dr. Divina Balocnit, project team members and the head of the University Information Office.
Following the MOA signing was a training session conducted among the Yookah Native Pig Project members. The training was crucial in equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and skills in genetic diversity of the native pig population, identification of a set of DNA markers for use in breed identification, breed composition and parentage testing, which are essential in establishing animal Traceability and Breed Registry in both native pigs and commercial pigs, thereby ensuring the effective implementation and long-term success of the initiative.
This partnership is expected to enhance YOOKAHโs research scope and boost its market potential in the province and beyond.
