NVSU’s Free-Range Chicken Project supports food security, income for NV Farmers; wins 2nd place Best Paper Award

Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU), through its Research, Extension, and Training (RET), launched the project "Establishing a Viable Enterprise Using Free Range Chicken Production Technology in Nueva Vizcaya," aimed at improving food security and local economic growth.

The project earned 2nd place in the Best Paper Award for the Development Category at the 35th Cagayan Valley Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CVAARRD) Regional Symposium, held on October 30-31, 2024, at Isabela State University, Echague, Isabela.

The initiative was developed in response to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and African Swine Fever (ASF), both of which impacted food security.

The team was inspired to pursue the research when the Department of Agriculture (DA) called for alternative protein sources. NVSU answered with a project to establish a free-range chicken breeding station at the NVSU Agricultural Innovation Center (AIC) in Tuao South, Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya. which now supplies local farmers with high-quality first-generation (F1) chicks.

"This project aligns with NVSU’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and community development," shared the project’s lead Dr. Lailanie A. Cungihan, explaining how the initiative has empowered 42 local beneficiaries from partner cooperatives.

As the project moves into its post-grant phase, it has been institutionalized for instructional and income-generation purposes, with plans for continued collaboration with cooperatives and local government units. Further, NVSU is preparing for an impact assessment to evaluate the project's effects on the community.

According to Dr. Cungihan, the project has been well-received by the community, with strong demand for free-range chicken products.

“This project has promoted collaboration and knowledge-sharing among farmers, which will contribute to a sustainable food source and reliable income for families in Nueva Vizcaya,” she added.

The team behind the project includes Dr. Cungihan, Dr. Rafael Luis F. Morillo, Dr. Vernadyn A. Morillo, Dr. Jane Bacani, Ms. Flora Joy B. Garcia, and Mr. Ramon P. Bangao, Jr.