The National Apiculture Research, Training, and Development Institute (NARTDI) team led by Dr. Venelyn L. Bersamira, Division Head for NARTDI Administration and Resource Generation, recently met with Ms. Angelica Hernandez of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) Animal Health and Welfare Division (AHWD) to discuss the upcoming training on basic beekeeping for Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) Inspectors.

The meeting primarily focused on finalizing the details of a training program designed to equip GAHP Inspectors with foundational knowledge and skills in beekeeping. This initiative, which will enable the inspectors to identify and address beekeeping-related issues during their regular inspections, is part of a broader effort to integrate beekeeping into animal husbandry practices, enhancing the overall quality of animal welfare and production standards.

Further, the NARTDI team met with MS. Andrea Joyce Arbues, BAI-NLP, Commodity Focal Perso-Bee at the Department of Agriculture Livestock Division, to deliberate on the proposed project for bee breeding and other concerns for beekeeping.

Furthermore, the team also had the opportunity to meet with DA Livestock Undersecretary Dr. Deogracias Victor B. Savellano for a comprehensive overview of the institute’s history, programs, and ongoing initiatives. The dialogue highlighted NARTDI’s commitment to advancing apiculture in the country.

Dr. Savellano expressed his strong support of the beekeeping sector, acknowledging its potential to contribute to the country’s agricultural productivity and sustainability. He recognized NARTDI for its dedication to promoting beekeeping and assured the team of his continued support for future initiatives. (By Arvin C. Tuyan)