Characterization and evaluation of smallholder duck production systems in Iloilo Province, Philippines

This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the smallholder duck production systems in Iloilo province. Two studies were conducted to characterize the systems and production constraints and evaluate the two alternative management interventions for smallhold duck farmers. Data from Study 1 were used as primary means to identify the set of decision variables and relationships that properly described the whole system. Thirty-eight accomplished structured questionnaires from smallhold duck farmers from 22 barangays [villages] in 14 municipalities in Iloilo province were used in this study. These questionnaires were part of those used by the ACIAR-UPLB funded project entitled 'Future Prospects for Smallholde4r Poultry Producers in the Philippines:Ducks and Native Chickens'. Study 1 employed descriptive statistics in analyzing the characteristics of duck farmers while Study 2 used a simulation model to evaluate two alternative management interventions for duck farmers. Results of study 1 showed that the main source of income of farmers was rice farming complemented by raising animals like ducks since vast rice fields are found in the area. Traditionally, majority of the farmers raised ducks in the range as a source of food and additional income. Seventy-six percent of these farmers did not practice regular flock replacement while 24 percent used ready-to-lay pullets bought from their neighbors or the local market to replace their stocks. Note that these farmers hatched their duck eggs through the use of native chicken or Muscovy ducks. High mortality rate at brooding (19 percent) and growing (20 percent) was identified to be one of the most common problems encountered. In study 2, a bio-economic model for the smallhold farmers in Iloilo province was developed. Smallhold duck production system in the province was simulated for 17 months. Layer population increased by 15 percent when management intervention I (complete confinement of ducklings during brooding stage) was applied. On the other hand, layer population increased by 27 percent when ducklings were confined during brooding and partially confined during the growing periods. Findings of the study revealed that confinement is the best alternative management strategy to improve the production system of duck smallholders in Iloilo province. The use of bio-economic models helps a lot in evaluating different management options before actual field application. Through the use of secondary data, evaluation can be done within a short period without much effort and expenses on the part of the researchers.