By Kenneth Marcos 
The glow of computer screens lit up homes and offices across Southeast Asia as experts from different countries connected online, exchanging ideas on improving animal welfare. From breeders to government officials, participants eagerly shared experiences and learned new ways to ensure safe and humane livestock practices.
On January 22–23, 2026, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS), through its Standards Development Division (SDD), successfully held the ASEAN Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) Expert Working Group (EWG) Workshop via Zoom. The virtual event brought together representatives from ASEAN Member States (AMS) to discuss harmonizing GAHP standards across the region.
Over the two-day workshop, participants reviewed updates to the Strategic Plan of Action for the ASEAN GAHP EWG. They explored the Alignment Assessment Tool and examined results from self-assessments and peer evaluations. The discussions highlighted both successes and challenges in implementing animal husbandry standards, allowing members to share best practices and learn from one another.
“This workshop strengthens regional cooperation and helps ensure consistent, high-quality practices in livestock management across ASEAN,” a DA-BAFS spokesperson said. By aligning standards, AMS aim to improve animal welfare, promote safe food production, and enhance trade opportunities within the region.
The initiative is part of ASEAN’s broader commitment to technical capacity-building and standard harmonization. As member states continue to collaborate, they can better address issues such as disease prevention, food safety, and sustainable livestock production. Experts noted that harmonized GAHP standards not only protect animals but also support farmers, consumers, and the wider economy.
Through events like this, DA-BAFS and ASEAN partners demonstrate the value of knowledge sharing and cooperation. By bringing countries together online, they ensure that progress in animal care and food safety remains steady, transparent, and inclusive.
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