THE POTENTIAL IN RAISING NATIVE PIGS

THERE IS A NOTION that raising native pigs is not sustainable because of the belief that the growth of this breed is slow,resulting in a slower rate in the return on investment. Others think that the native pig industry in the country will continue to be an insignificant factor in the local swine sector. But for Maxilillan B. Cabriga, or “Ian” as he is fondly called, there is much potentialin the native pig industry.“These potentials should be tapped in order to generate business prospects,” Cabriga stressed.The industry could also provide employment opportunities, particularly for the small players, he added.

Cabriga said thatnative pig meat is the best alternative to commerciallysold pork meat in the market.“With the rising demand for organic products, our native pig meat [is foreseen] to become a formidable alternative in the pork market.”

TOWARDS A NATIVE PIG INDUSTRY In an effort to capitalize on the untapped potential of raising native pigs in the country, Cabriga organized the Philippine Native Pig Owners Network Association, Inc. or PNPONAI, which is working to formulate standards for breeding, nutrition, and proper health management of the native pigs. The association aims to help in the conservation and development of native pig breeds, and for the establishment of a Philippine native pig industry.

Contrary to the belief that native pig raising is not sustainable as compared to raising hybrid pigs, Cabriga said that native pigs can sell for a much higher price than commercially raised hybrid swine.“That is why I am sharing [my] experiences[with] the operation ofmy farm, to teach…enthusiasts and native pig raisers so they can improve their production.”

This way, Cabriga intends to encourage the members of the

Ian Cabriga shows a rare specimen from his collection on his farm: “Billy”, a 10-year-old warted Philippine native pig.

The Philippine native pig is either black or black with a white belly and foot, and the varieties include the Ilocos and Jalajala.