This study was undertaken to understand the existing environment that prevails in each of the location which may impinge on the LGUs’ ability to promote backyard livestock production in the context of a crop-animal farming system among smallhold lowland rainfed farmers. This was conducted in four municipalities of Pangasinan namely; Umingan, Balungao, Sta. Barbara and Calasiao.
The study was a descriptive-evaluative type of research. It used a survey method and a personal interview schedule to collect primary data. Secondary data collected regarding the existing agricultural development program and support system, resource allocation, organizational structure legislated measures and other support services were collected from the DA-LGU regional, provincial and municipal levels.
Results show that the Provincial Agricultural Office (PAO) has an organizational structure that is divided into units and division that performs assigned functions for each program that will help them in the operationalization of agricultural development programs in the province.
The budget allocation for crops in the regional, provincial and municipal levels was found higher than those for livestock. Most of the financial resources allocated for agricultural extension services were used to pay for the salaries and other benefits of the staff, therefore, only a small portion was left to implement the project.
Personnel or the Agricultural Technologist (ATs) have an average age of 43 to 50 years old and an average of 19.28 years in service. Majority of them are assigned in the crop sector.
Legislated resolutions for resource allocation were on farm facilities and equipment. Sta. Barbara passed four resolutions for livestock development. Infrastructure topped in terms of resolution passed regarding resource generation.
Plant Now Pay Later (PNPL) and Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) programs were identified as the major programs for rice that had been implemented for crop sector. For the livestock sector, livestock dispersal, breeding loan, animal health care, diseases surveillance and marketing assistance. Project for irrigation and postharvest facilities were implemented.
In this study, Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), topped the significant factor affecting the level of prioritization accorded to livestock and other commodities in LGUs followed by income from local taxation, priority needs of the community, priority of the local chief executives and priority of the municipal council.
Re-orientation of LGU officials is recommended for them to become more effective in performing their responsibilities. With respect to personnel complement, crops and livestock should be integrated in the all the activities of the personnel in the provincial and municipal levels for effective and efficient extension services.
