Some 140 animal science professionals, veterinarians, agriculturists, practitioners from the academe and local government representatives from the Visayas regions gathered in Cebu from June 11-13, 2025, for the 42nd Philippine Society of Animal Science – Visayas Chapter (PSAS-VC) convention.
With the theme, “Fostering Sustainable Agriculture: Innovations in Food-Animal Production and Health for Resilient Agripreneurship,” the convention will tackle key challenges and showcase innovations in the livestock and poultry industry.
In his keynote message, Department of Agriculture-Central Visayas (DA7) Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Dr. Wilberto O. Castillo, congratulated the PSAS-VC for pulling off a successful convention saying, “the theme hits home, it maybe long yet very impactful.”
In addition, he added, “we are here because we want our farmers and animal raisers not just to survive, but to thrive—to become strong, smart, and sustainable agripreneurs.”
Director Castillo also called all stakeholders present to work together, to preserve, improve, promote, and strengthen the mission of serving the communities through science-based agriculture.
This convention also aligns with the directives of the Marcos administration in empowering the agriculture sector through science-based innovations and advancements towards a food-secure nation, while uplifting the economic condition of the farmers and fisherfolk.
In addition, Dr. Claro N. Mingala, the DA-National Livestock Program Coordinator, also shared that the DA is always in full support of the aspirations of the PSAS-VC in nurturing communities through systems that boost sustainable agriculture.
Part of the convention was the giving of plaques to the speakers, as well as recognizing outstanding paper presenters during the 2019 PSAS-VC convention.
Among those who received their plaque of recognitions were Dr. Mae Ann Tongol (PSAS-VC President-Elect 2025-2026) and Dr. Carl Pradera (OIC-City Veterinarian of Tagbilaran, Bohol).
Moreover, the plenary discussions centered on sustainable farming methods, animal welfare, and the industry’s role in boosting economic growth and food security, particularly in rural areas.
