The Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) will host the ZamPen Native Chicken FIESTA on November 22-23, 2016 at the KCC Mall de Zamboanga.
The event, which banners the theme “Manok ZamPen: Livelihood Option for Every JUAN in the Region”, is also in partnership with the Western Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources, Research and Development Consortium (WESMAARRDEC) and Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Unit IX (DA-RFU IX). This aims to promote Zamboanga Peninsula’s very own native chicken through technology matching, product promotion, and stakeholders’ forum in order to improve its visibility and marketability both in the local and international fronts.
Different activities are lined up as part of the event, including a media conference at 11:00AM, science and technology business forums in the afternoon of November 22; photo and poster making contests, technology and business matching consultation, and viewing of products and exhibits on November 23 at the Acer activity area, Second Floor of the KCC Mall.
WMSU, as one of the implementing agency of the Native Chicken Program funded by PCAARRD, has developed a sustainable science and technology or S&T-based options to native chicken improvement and profitable utilization for rural farmers in Region 9 through development of technologies on breeding and selection, generation of pricing and marketing information and policy recommendation for the enhancement of native chicken productivity and production efficiency. The native chicken meat has always been preferred by consumers over that of commercial chickens due to its unique taste and distinct flavor, presence of nutraceutical compounds, and lower fat content.
The program promotes the ZamPen Native Chicken vantage point to the region on the concept of Farms and Industry Encounters through the Science and Technology Agenda (FIESTA). This will promote the native chicken industry capitalizing on its benefits and opportunities for everyone.