April 30, 2008

Philippine hog farmers seek more financial support over production cost peaks

Philippine hog raisers are urging the government to provide financial and other intensive support to restock backyard raisers and grant loans to commercial raisers to be able to increase their production amid upward trend of feed prices.

During the 17th Hog Conference in Cebu City held last week, National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc. (NFHFI) president Albert Lim said the funds should come from the government's Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ACEF).

Lim calls on the Department of Agriculture to put more emphasis on Visayas and Mindanao, given the prevalence of hog diseases in Luzon.

Good prices and the opening up of the Singapore market for local pork exports are expected to motivate existing hog raisers to continue increasing their production.

Earlier, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore has accredited Matutum Meat Packing Plant in Mindanao, paving way for the Singaporean market to Philippine pork.

The National Meat Inspection Service however said the volume for shipment to Singapore remains uncertain at this time because of the current crunch being felt in hog supply in Luzon.