ASSESSMENT OF SMALL-SCALE LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF NAAWAN, MISAMIS ORIENTAL, PHILIPPINES: FOUNDATIONS FOR THE TAGBALOGOATS EXTENSION INITIATIVE

Assessment plays a role in extension projects in rural areas, as it facilitates understanding beneficiaries' needs and emphasizes the importance of training needs assessments. The "Tagbalogoats: Quality Forage Assistance Project" in Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines, stresses animal nutrition's significance for sustainable backyard livestock farming. Surveying 55 livestock raisers across six barangays, the project assesses demographics, forage options, challenges, and training needs. Most participants are over 50 years old, with a majority being women. Swine is the most raised livestock, followed by cattle, goats, and buffaloes. Local forage options often lack nutritional value, indicating the necessity for better support. Farmers express a high demand for livestock management and forage services training. These findings show the importance of ongoing support for sustainable agriculture, especially in addressing the service gap. Empowering farmers through training enhances their livelihoods and promotes regional economic growth. The project not only advances sustainable livestock production but also focuses on the importance of women in agriculture and provides lessons for other similar projects in the agricultural sectors.