Published October 14, 2025 by Joselina Azucena
A groundbreaking ceremony was held this morning, October 14, 2025, at Cagayan State University–Piat Campus for the establishment of the 30-Sow Level Swine Multiplier Farm and Technodemo Project, marking a significant milestone in the university’s continued efforts to strengthen agricultural innovation and community development.
The project, funded through a ₱10-million grant from the Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) Regional Training Center 02, is part of the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) under the DA National Livestock Program. It aims to enhance local swine production, promote sustainable farming practices, and provide livelihood opportunities to nearby communities.
In his message, Campus Executive Officer Hitler C. Dangatan expressed gratitude to Dr. Michael Uy, project lead proponent, and to the municipal government for their support. “This groundbreaking activity is a symbol of unity, hope, and progress,” he said, underscoring the collaborative spirit behind the project’s implementation.
Dr. Roger Rumpon, University Dean of the College of Agriculture, highlighted the project’s multi-agency nature, calling it “a confluence of various agencies.” He elaborated:
“This is an effort of the Department of Agriculture through its National Livestock Program in order to catalyze and accelerate developments in our livestock sector. First, it involves the funding agent—the Department of Agriculture through the Agricultural Training Institute. Second, the Local Government Unit which endorsed the viability of the project site. Third, the host agency—a state university—which serves as an incubator of ideas where researches are conducted and translated into community applications. Lastly, our stakeholders—the community—the ultimate recipient of this project.”
Vice President for Academic Affairs Mariden V. Cauilan, DPA who represented the University President Prof. Arthur G. Ibañez , also commended the DA Region 02 and DA-ATI for their continued partnership, emphasizing the importance of aligning initiatives with long-term sustainability goals.
“We should aim for sustainable development. All projects should gear toward the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and that is the best way to contribute to national development,” she said.
Ms. Mayflor Macmac, representing DA-ATI Center Director Dr. Claris Alaska, conveyed the agency’s commitment to collaboration, stating that DA-ATI “is always within reach to work with partner institutions in improving the livelihood of people in the communities.”
Mr. Rex Scott Aquino, representative of the Office of the Municipal Mayor Leonel C. Guzman, mentioned in his message that the municipality’s endorsement of this project stands as a testament to its unwavering support for agricultural advancement, and that they commend the lead proponent for his dedication and perseverance in earnestly lobbying for this initiative with the LGU.
Other dignitaries present included Dr. Adrian Ramos, representative of DA Regional Director Dr. Rosemary Aquino; Solana Campus CEO Haidee Mabborang, Municipal Agriculturist Ms. Marideth Maramag; and various University Vice Presidents.
Lead proponent Dr. Michael M. Uy, from the College of Agriculture, noted that the initiative reflects the university’s dedication to advancing agricultural education and supporting local farmers through research-based, practical interventions.
The Swine Multiplier Farm and Technodemo Project is expected to serve as both a production and learning facility, strengthening the region’s livestock sector and contributing to the overall economic growth and resilience of the agricultural community in Cagayan.
📸Mr. Ronel Nogueras