CEBU CITY, Cebu — The Cebu Provincial Government has revived the Barangay Animal Health Aide (BAHA) Congress after a seven-year hiatus, bringing together around 800 animal health workers from across the province to strengthen efforts to protect Cebu’s livestock and poultry industry.

Held Tuesday, August 19, at the IEC Convention Center Cebu, the congress provided BAHA representatives with training and updates on animal health, disease prevention, livestock production, and agricultural biosecurity.

The event was organized by the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) headed by Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Mary Rose Vincoy.

Among the topics discussed during the congress were livestock and poultry protection, biosecurity for the backyard swine industry, poultry production and disease management, veterinary documents required for animal movement, and cattle production and management.

Gov. Pam highlights role of BAHAs in food security

During the gathering, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro underscored the important role of BAHAs in supporting the province’s food security agenda.

“Kabalo man mo nga very close to my heart ang food security. I dream of a Cebu that can produce more of its own food. A Cebu where our farmers and fisherfolk can earn better. A Cebu where agriculture is not seen as a last option, but as a real opportunity for our families and our young people,” Baricuatro said.

The governor recognized BAHAs as frontline partners in protecting Cebu’s livestock and poultry sector.

Their responsibilities include disease detection and surveillance, farmer education, vaccination, rabies prevention and other animal health services at the barangay level.

“To every Barangay Animal Health Aide here today, salamat sa inyong panahon, sa inyong pasensya, ug sa inyong serbisyo. Padayon ta sa pag-atiman, padayon ta sa pagpanalipod, padayon ta sa pagserbisyo,” Baricuatro said.

She also assured the animal health workers that the provincial government would continue supporting them as they perform their duties in communities.

“And as you continue taking care of Cebu’s animals, farmers, and communities, your Provincial Government will also do its best to take care of you,” she added.

P10,000 assistance for retiring BAHAs

As part of the provincial government’s support for the sector, Baricuatro announced that retiring Barangay Animal Health Aides will receive P10,000 in cash assistance.

The governor also officiated the oath-taking of the newly elected BAHA Federation officers.

She further expressed her commitment to making the BAHA Congress an annual event, providing animal health workers with a regular venue for training, knowledge-sharing and coordination.

The provincial government also recognized the Top 10 Outstanding BAHA Associations for their contributions to animal health and agricultural development in their respective communities.

Participants likewise received agrivet supplies, while at least P200,000 in cash prizes were distributed through a raffle draw.

Strengthening Cebu’s livestock sector

The revival of the congress comes as the province continues to strengthen its agricultural sector and promote food security.

For many communities, BAHAs serve as the first line of support when farmers encounter animal health concerns. Their presence at the barangay level allows disease concerns to be detected and reported earlier while helping farmers access appropriate veterinary assistance.

The training provided during the congress is also expected to help BAHAs improve their knowledge of disease prevention, biosecurity and proper animal management.

By strengthening the capacity of these community-based animal health workers, the provincial government aims to help protect livestock, support farmers and safeguard the province’s food supply.

The event also served as an opportunity for BAHAs from different local government units to share experiences and strengthen their coordination with the Provincial Veterinary Office.

Provincial officials attend congress

Also present during the event were Vice Governor Glenn Soco; Board Member Lakambini Reluya, vice chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Livelihood; PB Member Celestino Martinez III, chairman of the Committee on Barangay Affairs and Rural Development; and PB Members Nilo Seno, Alfie Ouano and Stanley Caminero.

DILG Cebu Provincial Director Jesus Sastrillo also attended the gathering.

With the return of the BAHA Congress, the Cebu Provincial Government is seeking to strengthen the network of animal health workers who play a crucial role in protecting the province’s livestock and poultry industry.

The initiative also supports Gov. Baricuatro’s broader goal of developing agriculture into a stronger source of livelihood while ensuring that Cebu can produce more of its own food.