Challenges in goat production faced by halal goat raisers in region xii (Soccsksargen), Philippines

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine challenges in Halal goat production in SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII). This region is one of the major producers of Halal goats in the country. Twelve (12) municipalities/cities: North Cotabato-Pigcawayan, Aleosan, Carmen and Kabacan; Sultan Kudarat-Columbio, Pres. Quirino, Tacurong, Isulan; South Cotabato-Tantangan, Tupi, Polomolok; and General Santos City) were the sampling sites. Purposive sampling was used in the survey. A total of 131 respondents were interviewed using a questionnaire. Based on the results of the interview, ten (10) challenges have been enumerated by the respondents. It includes disease, lack of vet services, shortage of land, inadequate pasture, predators, theft, poor breeds, no fences, shortage of water and labor intensive. Among these challenges, disease was the most common (65%) followed by lack of vet services (8%) and shortage of land, inadequate pasture and the presence of predators (5%). Common goat diseases encountered by the respondents include diarrhea (57%), cold (13%), cough (11%), bloat (8%) and parasitic infection (7%). Assessment of challenges in Halal goat raising provides necessary information to government institutions in order to formulate possible intervention and proper coordination between agricultural technicians and goat raisers.