University of Southeastern Philippines

College of Agriculture and Related Sciences

Department of Agriculture
Mabini Unit

AG ENG-222 INTRODUCTION TO BASIC FARM STRUCTURE

AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURE INSPECTION REPORT BASED ON THE PHILIPPINE

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING STANDARD

(PAES)

Submitted by:
Rocima, Sandy M.
Pille, Rosalino Jr. B.
Ibag, Aya G.
Agyadan, Relliza
Linogon, Alexander John R.
Eyac, Vince
Ballesteros, Jovann
Dullano, Rheadette
Aurellana, Jay
2A1
Submitted to:
ENGR. RUEL F. TUYOGON

APRIL 2025
I. INTRODUCTION

The Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard (PAES) is a vital

framework that provides guidelines for the development and implementation of
agricultural infrastructure in the Philippines. It encompasses various aspects of
agricultural engineering, ranging from structural design and machinery
operations to environmental sustainability and safety regulations. This standard
ensures that agricultural practices and infrastructure are efficient, safe, and
environmentally responsible, contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector
in the country.

i. Purpose of Inspection Report

The main objective of the inspection report is to assess whether the

cattle feedlot and housing at the University of Southeastern Philippines'
Mabini unit comply with the standards set in PAES No. 405:2001 for cattle
housing. The purpose of the management recommendations and insights
gained from this inspection is to improve the overall safety, efficiency, and
functionality of the agricultural facilities, ensuring optimal conditions for
cattle and supporting the growth of the agricultural operations.

ii. Scope of Inspection Report

The only focus of the inspection report was focuses of the following:

 Location
 Structure
 Facilities
 Electrical

iii. Background Information

The cattle housing facility at the University of Southeastern Philippines – Mabini

Unit is strategically situated beside the Pindasan National Highway in Mabini,
 Davao de Oro. This facility is part of the university’s animal farm, which currently
accommodates a total of 26 cattle, consisting of thirteen (13) calves, eleven (11)
cows, and two (2) bulls.

On April 17, 2025, a site evaluation was conducted to assess the current
condition and suitability of the cattle housing setup. The evaluation adhered to the
Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard (PAES) No. 405:2001, a recognized
technical guideline for cattle housing systems in the Philippines. These standards
serve as a foundation for designing facility specifications and play an important role
in testing, monitoring, and evaluating equipment and housing performance to
ensure optimal livestock welfare and management efficiency.

II. LOCATION

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, the site should be accessible to service roads,

water supply, and electric lines. It must be well-drained and allow free air
circulation. The building should follow an east-west orientation, and housing
for marketable animals should be located near the service road.

 The cattle housing facility at the USeP–Mabini Unit is located behind the
vermi housing structure, facing west towards the vermicompost area. It
occupies a spacious area that allows free movement and grazing for the
cattle.

 Recommendation

It is recommended to reorient the cattle housing from west-facing to an

east-west orientation to enhance ventilation and minimize heat stress.
Additionally, relocating the structure closer to the service road will improve
accessibility for maintenance and transport, aligning the facility with standard
provisions.
III. STRUCTURAL INSPECTION

i. Floor

Findings

 It complies with the requirements of PAES 405:2001, which states that the
floor must be concrete and shall be skid-resistant. The minimum floor
thickness shall be 76 mm with a 2 - 4% slope towards the drainage.

 The floor of the cattle shed was made out of concrete, skid-resistant, and
slightly sloped. The floor thickness is measured at 47 cm.

 Recommendation

The floor thickness did not reach the minimum requirement for PAES
however, it is still serving its purpose. If there are enough funds for renovations,
adjusting the thickness of the floor would be recommended to conform to the
standard.

ii. Roof

Findings

 Based on PAES 405:2001, the roof slope shall not be less than 25%. The
minimum roof slope shall be 58% if roofing is made of indigenous materials.
The minimum height of the top of the roof beam shall be 2.5 m from the floor.

 In the implemented design, the roof features colored roofing material with an
integrated insulator to minimize heat absorption, improving thermal comfort
within the structure. Additionally, the height of the top of the roof beam has
been measured at 3.13 meters from the floor, exceeding the minimum
requirement and providing enhanced ventilation and spatial efficiency.
 Figure 5. Roof in the cattle farm

 Recommendation
Proper roof maintenance should be regularly observed, as certain
areas may have leaks that could lead to flooding in the ground where the
cattle reside. Addressing these issues promptly will help ensure a dry, safe,
and comfortable environment for the livestock, reducing health risks and
preventing potential structural damage. Regular inspections and timely
repairs are essential to maintaining the integrity of the roofing system and
safeguarding the well-being of the cattle.

iii. Pen Wall

Findings

 According to the Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard (PAES),

the recommended specification for cattle pen walls include a center to
center spacing of 1.5 meters between vertical railing members and 400
mm for the horizontal member. Additionally, the maximum spacing
between posts should be 3 meters.

 Upon inspection, the cattle pen wall at the USeP Mabini Unit was found
to be in full compliance with these standards. The structure meets the
required dimension and spacing guidelines, ensuring both animal safety
and structural integrity, as outlined by PAES.

Figure 6. Pen wall in the cattle farm

  Recommendation
Based on the findings, the pen wall of the cattle facility meets the
standard of PAES. However, to maintain the safety, durability, and
functionality of the structure, it is recommended that regular inspections
and maintenance be conducted. This includes checking for rust, loose
fittings, or wear and tear on the rails and posts. If future expansion or
renovation are planned, the facility should continue to follow PAES
standard to ensure animal welfare and handler safety.

iv. Pen Size

Findings

 According to the Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard (PAES)

the pen width should be adequate to ensure sufficient trough length and
feeding space for all cattle, considering their number and size.

 Based on the inspection conducted at the cattle facility of USeP Mabini

Unit, the pen provides enough space to accommodate the current
populations, which include 13 calves, 11 cows, and 2 bulls. With the
total pen area of 2,000 cm length and 600 cm width (20 meters by 6
meters), the facility complies with the spatial requirements outlined in
PAES.

Figure 7. Pen in the cattle farm

  Recommendation
Although the current pen meets the PAES standard, it is
recommended to clearly designate separate feeding and resting areas
within the facility to enhance animal comfort and hygiene, providing
partitions or group pens for calves, cows, and bulls can improve
management efficiency and prevent behavioral issues. Regular monitoring
of animal is also advised to ensure the facility continues to meet space
requirements are the herd size changes.

v. Feeding trough

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, the feeding trough of cattle should be

placed in front of the pen with smooth and rounded corners to facilitate
cleaning. The dimension of the trough is recommended to have 400 mm
depth, 450 mm – 700 mm bottom width and 700 mm – 900 mm top
width and is made of concrete or gravel packed aprons for sanitation.
The bed of the trough should be 150 mm above the level of the apron to
facilitate natural feeding stance with railing to restrict cattle from
stepping inside.

 Based on the cattle facilities of USeP Mabini Unit , feeding trough are
not employed because the farm rely on it’s wide grazing area for cattle.

Figure 8. Feeding trough in the cattle farm

  Recommendation

Feeding trough should still be constructed at the cattle facility for

some instances in which the cattle can’t go out.

vi. Drinking Facility

Findings

 The drinking trough for cattle on the USeP Mabini farm complied with
the standard that the Philippine Agriculture Engineering Standard
(PAES) issued. The drinking trough was made of concrete with round
bottom to facilitate cleaning and has a 9.6 m length and 5.2 width. The
drinking trough employed an open water tank located at the middle of
the pen with vertical rails to avoid stepping on the tank.

Figure 9. Watering facility on the farm

 Recommedation

The drinking trough for the cattle should have float activate valve to
regulate water level and drainage at the bottom of the tank for easy
draining of water and cleaning the tank.
IV. FACILITIES

i. Loading Chute

Findings

 According to PAES, a loading chute should be properly oriented to

reduce the impact of bright sunlight and have a width of 660 mm to 760
mm. It must include a catwalk on one side to assist handlers during
cattle loading, as well as telescoping side panels and a self-aligning
dock bumper for efficient operation. Additionally, the chute should
feature a loading ramp with a level surface approximately 1.5 meters
wide, suitable for cattle to walk on or off the truck, with ramp height
adjusted depending on the type of vehicle.

 Recommendation

It is recommended to install a loading chute at the USeP Mabini Unit farm

to make loading and unloading cattle safer, easier, and faster. Without it, handling
cattle can be more stressful and dangerous for both the animals and the handlers.

ii. Loading Ramp

Findings

 According to PAES, the loading ramp should have cross battens spaced
every 200 mm to prevent slipping and a slope of 30%. For permanently
installed ramps, the slope must not exceed 36%, while portable or
adjustable chutes should not exceed 47%. Ramp height varies by
vehicle type: 0.4 m for gooseneck trailers, 0.7 m for pick-up trucks, 1.0
m for van-type trucks, 1.2 m for tractor trailers, and 2.5 m for double-
deck trucks. If stair-stepped concrete ramps are used, each step should
have a 90–100 mm rise and a 300 mm tread width, with a roughened
surface for better grip.
  The ramp at farm cattle facilities is made of concrete and appears to
have a gentle slope, which is good for cattle loading. However, it lacks
safety features like cross battens or steps to prevent slipping.

 Recommendation

Install cross battens or textured steps on the concrete ramp to

enhance traction and prevent cattle from slipping, ensuring safer loading
and unloading.

iii. Passage

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, the central alley or the driveway should

be elevated and shall have a minimum width of 3 m if vehicles are
allowed to enter within the building and it shall have a solid base.

 Based on the cattle facility of USeP Mabini unit , The passageways are
relatively narrow in some parts, especially near the feeding area, which
sometimes causes congestion when multiple cattle are moving.

 The flooring is mostly concrete, but some portions appear slippery when
wet due to accumulation of waste or feed residues.

 Recommendation

Widen the narrow passageways to meet the minimum PAES

standard of 3 meters, especially in high-traffic areas such as near the
feeding and holding sections. Upgrade flooring by applying a non-slip
finish (e.g., grooved concrete or rubber mats) to reduce the risk of slipping.

iv. Weighing Scale

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, platform weighing scale should be

provided and shall be located adjacent to the working chute or within the
corral system.
  In the cattle facility of USeP Mabini Unit, there is no functional weighing
scale was observed in the facility and there was no designated area or
setup for weighing cattle.

 Recommendation

Install a digital or mechanical livestock weighing scale in the cattle

facility, preferably near the handling or chute area. Ensure that the scale is
heavy-duty, weather-resistant, and large enough to accommodate full-
grown cattle. Calibrate the scale regularly to maintain accurate readings.

v. Feed Storage

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, Storage sheds for all feedstuffs – hay,

grain, mineral salt, shall be provided to keep it dry, protect from rodents
and be inaccessible to animals.

 It was observed that the farm lacked a designated feed storage facility,
which poses significant risks to feed quality and animal health. Without
proper storage, feed is left exposed to the elements, making it
vulnerable to contamination, spoilage, and nutrient degradation.

 Recommendation

Given these observations, it is recommended that the farm

construct a simple but secure feed storage area, preferably elevated and
roofed, to protect feed from moisture and pests. This would not only
preserve feed quality but also support consistent and efficient feeding
practices.

vi. Waste Disposal

Findings

 Based on the PAES 405:2001, For waste management, refer to PAES

414:2002 Agricultural Structures – Waste Management Structures.
  One commendable practice observed was the farm’s waste
management system—manure was regularly collected and utilized for
vermi composting, showcasing a sustainable and eco-friendly approach
to handling waste.

 Recommendation

In light of these findings, it is recommended that the drainage

system be improved to prevent water accumulation, which can
compromise animal health and sanitation. Regular maintenance of flooring
should also be ensured, especially in high-use areas, to prevent further
erosion and injury.

vii. Drainage

Findings

 According to Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standard (PAES), cattle

facilities should have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and
ensure animal health. This is achieved by providing a sloped floor and
drainage channels, with the floor having a minimum thickness of 76 mm
and a 2-4% slope towards the drainage.

 Recommendation

According to PAES, Usep-Mabini unit cattle farms should follow the

standard measurements drainage system of having a measurement of a
minimum width of 460 mm and a minimum depth of 200 mm to prevent
waterlogging.

V. ELECTRICAL

Findings

 According to PAES 405:2001, the housing shall be provided with lighting

intensity of 200 lux (refer to Annex B). And all electrical installations
 shall be inaccessible to all animals and it shall conform to Philippine
Electrical Code.

 Based on the facility of USeP Mabini Unit, The lighting and wiring
installations are being followed in accordance with the PAES guidelines.

Figure 10. Lights in the cattle house

 Recommendation
Implementing lighting standards can help reduce energy
consumption and costs.

VI. CONCLUSION

A. Summary of the findings

The cattle feedlot generally adheres to PAES 405:2001 standards,

featuring an open-sided structure that ensures good ventilation and animal
comfort. The flooring, a combination of compacted soil and concrete, is functional
but shows signs of wear. Waste management is a strong point, as the farm
practices sustainable vermi composting of collected manure. However, some
areas suffer from poor drainage, leading to water pooling. Feed and water
troughs are accessible but require elevation to avoid contamination. Overall, the
facility is functional with commendable practices, but improvements in drainage,
flooring maintenance, and trough design are recommended.
B. Summary of the recommendation

To improve the cattle feedlot facility, it is recommended to enhance the

drainage system to prevent water pooling and maintain a dry, sanitary
environment. Regular maintenance of the flooring, particularly in high-traffic
areas, should be conducted to prevent erosion and injury. Feed and water
troughs should be slightly elevated to reduce contamination risks. Lastly, the farm
is encouraged to continue and potentially expand its vermi composting efforts as
a sustainable and beneficial waste management practice.

VII. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our subject adviser,

Engr. Ruel Tuyugon, for his unwavering support, guidance, and mentorship
throughout the conduct of our Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standards
(PAES) inspection at the University of Southeastern Philippines, Tagum-Mabini
Campus, Mabini Unit. His expertise and dedication greatly contributed to the
success and direction of this learning experience. We are equally grateful to all
the participants—especially the members of our group—for their cooperation,
commitment, and active participation. We also appreciate our classmates, whose
encouragement and constructive feedback inspired us throughout this journey.
Thank you to everyone who made the accomplishment of this Learning Evidence
possible.
 VIII. APPENDICES

A. PHILIPPINE AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING STANDARD PAES 405:2001

Agricultural Structures – Cattle Feedlot.
https://amtec.uplb.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/405.pdf

B. Photographed

Figure 1. Getting the measurement of pen wall Figure 1.2. Getting the measurement of the pen wall

Figure 2. Getting the measurement of drinking trough Figure 4. Group photo of group cattle

Figure 3. The cattle house and the group members