By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The gamefowl industry in Negros Occidental has reported huge losses brought about by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Provincial Veterinary Officer, Dr. Renante Decena, said they have only recorded around three percent or 500 to 600 “ready-to-fight” gamefowls which have been exported by local breeders in February of this year.

Decena noted the province could export at least 15,000 to 20,000 gamefowls annually, and the province earns around P300,000 to P500,000 a month from breeders who apply for permits from the Provincial Veterinary Office.

As of this year, Decena said they have only earned around P12,000.

The provincial veterinary officer pointed out the sector was hard hit because of the limited movements and restrictions brought by the community quarantines.

In response to the reports that cockfighting may be allowed to resume in areas under modified general community quarantine, Decena hopes that breeders will be able to bounce back soon and would also help the province’s local economy./DGB, WDJ