ISSN 2360-7971
Abstract: We conducted this study to determine the present status, prospects, economic potential, and sustainability of Philippine native pig production in Bataan. We randomly selected and assessed a total of 100 pig farmers using survey questionnaires. The results showed that backyard producers dominated production (99.07%). The respondents' native pigs were non-descript because of a lack of proper characterization. Local needs dominated supply and demand, with 76.89% of the pigs sold on a wholesale basis without considering the actual pig weight, and 76.15% of the pigs picked up by buyers. The operating system was farrow-to-finish (78.15%), and there was no breeder operation. There was little concern for the provision of a proper housing system and equipment. Pigs were raised in a group or communal system (84.92%), which encouraged premature breeding because the smaller and weaker animals always lacked a chance during competition for food and better space. The feed types provided lack the necessary nutrition, resulting in slower growth and failure to reach maximum potential. The very low percentage of feeding commercial feeds (13.85%) was due to the high cost of the feeds. A lack of awareness about its negative effects led to the practice of inbreeding (68.52%). There was a very low percentage of people practicing proper animal health management. The lack of record-keeping prevents us from analyzing the economic potential of raising native pigs. These findings suggest the need to introduce science and technology interventions to sustain the Philippine native pig production in Bataan.
Keywords: breeding system, economic potential, non-descript, Philippine native pig, prospects