WHEREAS, the role of ruminants as source of food in the form of meat and milk as well as livelihood among smallhold farming families is becoming more pronounced in the light of increasing demand for food of animal origin;

WHEREAS, there is a recognized need to enhance Genetic Improvement Program (GIP) in farm animals, particularly among ruminants, in support of DA-led national program of improving livestock production and food security;

WHEREAS, GIP in ruminants is limited by the nature of biological parameters, such as long generation interval and limited number of offspring per birth, and that reproductive biotechnologies, such as embryo transfer, IVM/IVF embryo production, and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and gene-based technology, such as Marker Assisted Selection (MAS), are shown to hasten as well as increase accuracy of selection and propagation of superior genetics;

WHEREAS, the PCC is mentioned among DA livestock agencies authorized to undertake Livestock Biotechnology perA.O. 21, Series of 2005, having the basic facilities and technical expertise to be able to carry out the livestock biotechnology related efforts;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ARTHUR C. YAP, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, in accordance with the powers vested in me, do hereby designate PCC as the lead livestock agency to carry out GIP-related biotechnologies not only in Carabao but also in cattle and small ruminants.

In the implementation whereof, PCC shall coordinate with other livestock agencies, such as the Bureau of Animal Industry, National Dairy Authority, and other concerned institutions.

This Order shall take effect immediately and shall supersede all other orders inconsistent herewith.

Adopted: 10 March 2008

(SGD.) ARTHUR C.YAP
Secretary

RECOMMENDING APPROVAL:

(SGD.) JESUS EMMANUEL M. PARAS
Undersecretary Field Operations and Fisheries, Livestock & Regulation