Author: Jeremie Marinella Ledesma

Senator Cynthia Villar, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, emphasized the importance of education and skill development in achieving economic upliftment for farmers through farm schools.

“We carry the values of perseverance and diligence so we can provide a better future for the Filipino people,” she averred at the opening program of the training on “Capacitating Coconut Farmers on Dairy Buffalo Production for Increased Income,” held May 7, 2024, at the Villar Foundation Farm School and Tourist Farm located in Las Piñas-Bacoor, Cavite.

She urged the participants to apply the knowledge they gained from the training back in their home provinces.

The training initiative is a collaborative effort between the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) and the DA-Philippine Coconut Authority (DA-PCA), in partnership with the Villar Social Institute for Poverty Alleviation and Governance (SIPAG) Farm School. It focuses on educating coconut farmers about proper dairy buffalo production and management and enterprise development through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. The training is part of the Coconut-Carabao Development Project (CCDP), funded by DA-PCA.

Senator Villar recounted a visit to a barangay in Pagadian City, which inspired her support for the dairy buffalo enterprise model. This model involves local families managing dairy herds, processing, and selling dairy products locally. Curious about the economic viability of such enterprises, she advances the need for 50 carabaos per operation. The combination of Pagadian’s backyard dairy production and the DA-PCC’s Dairy Box branding impressed her leading to her resolve to allocate funds to replicate this model nationwide.

The following year, Senator Villar allocated a PHP170 million budget to the DA-PCC to expand this model to 17 provinces, eventually named Accelerating Livelihood Assets Buildup (ALAB) Karbawan. Each province received PHP10 million to cover the procurement cost of 50 carabaos, one processing facility, and other miscellaneous expenses.

The ALAB Karbawan is an umbrella program initiative and popularized name for the province-wide Carabao-based Enterprise Development implementation projects namely Carabao-based Business Improvement Network (CBIN) and CCDP. Its primary goal is to establish robust carabao-based enterprises in recipient provinces, thereby generating livelihood opportunities for farmers.

Dr. Liza G. Battad, DA-PCC executive director, expressed her gratitude to Sen. Villar for her continuous support to carabao-based enterprise programs, which provide livelihood and business opportunities for dairy farmers nationwide.

PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter R. Buted also expressed gratitude and emphasized the crucial role of coconut-carabao farmers in sustaining the country’s agricultural productivity.

The three-day training event, which will run until May 9, includes comprehensive modules on various aspects of buffalo dairy management, including nutrition, animal health, and milking practices.

Some 30 farmers from the CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and Bicol regions are participating in this initiative, all beneficiaries of the CCDP.

The Bohol Dairy Cooperative (BODACO) and the First Consolidated Cooperative Along Tañon Seaboards (FCCT), cooperatives assisted by the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Ubay Stock Farm (DA-PCC at USF), received commendation for effectively implementing the Enterprise Development (I-REAP) project funded by the World Bank through the DA-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP).

DA-PRDP and World Bank officials visited Bohol for the 17th World Bank Implementation Support Mission (WB ISM) on May 2, 2024. The purpose of the mission was to evaluate the overall implementation and performance of projects, review compliance with previously agreed actions, and assess financial management, disbursement, and procurement practices.

The PRDP is a six-year project that aims to enhance farmers’ and industry players’ access to a strategic network of infrastructure, market information, and support services. To achieve this, the project focuses on four main components: Local Planning (IPLAN), Infrastructure Development (I-BUILD), Enterprise Development (I-REAP), and Project Support (I-SUPPORT).

Under the I-REAP component where BODACO and FCCT are included as beneficiaries, PRDP will involve various sectors of the industry in generating marketable surplus by investing in key segments of priority commodity value chains identified in the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Plan (RAFMP) and the Provincial Commodity Investment Plans (PCIPs).

In 2018, the “Bohol Dairy Processing and Marketing Enterprise” project by BODACO received a collaborative investment totaling PHP9 million. The enterprise, situated in Lomangog, Ubay, Bohol, was completed and handed over in 2022. Its objective was to maintain and grow BODACO’s dairy business both within Bohol and in other regions.

BODACO Chairperson Roger Damalerio expressed his gratitude for the project’s significant impact, citing remarkable improvements such as land acquisition, vehicle purchase, commissary construction, PhilGEPS registration, and substantial asset growth from PHP3 million in 2017 to nearly PHP40 million in six years.

FCCT’s ongoing project, “Bohol Silage Production and Marketing Enterprise,” with a total project cost of PHP40,172,457.84 aims to overcome supply challenges in the buffalo dairy industry in Bohol and support its growth. This project directly helps farmers by providing crucial feed resources for their operations.

The subproject is at 36% physical progress with PHP22 million already downloaded to FCCT out of the PHP40.17 million total project cost.
Magdaleno Bargamento, chief executive officer of FCCT, shared the cooperative’s journey, especially their efforts for agricultural activities during the 2020 pandemic. He explained that they started the project by identifying gaps in the Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP) of Bohol, specifically addressing feed supply shortages.

Today, both cooperatives are committed to identifying gaps that hinder the advancement of the dairy industry in Bohol, striving for further progress and development of the dairy industry.

Various government agencies have converged to implement the “Gatasang Kalabaw Kontra Kagutuman at Kahirapan” (GK3K) project, leveraging the carabao’s role in sustaining livelihoods. The project aligns with President Ferdinand “Bong-Bong” Marcos Jr.’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals focused on ending poverty and achieving zero hunger.

The initiative was officially launched at the grand opening of the Balungao GK3K Farm on April 29 in San Andres, Balungao, Pangasinan.

The GK3K project is a Program Convergence Budgeting (PCB)-Zero Hunger initiative of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP) in collaboration with DA-PCC, other national government agencies, and select local government units. Its goal is to empower disadvantaged communities by establishing sustainable income streams through carabao-based enterprises.

DSWD Undersecretary for Operations Monina Josefina Romualdez said the DSWD is one of the agencies that helps combat poverty and hunger through its various programs, such as the SLP.

“Ang pangunahing layunin ng SLP ay palakasin ang kapasidad ng mahihirap o vulnerable sector upang magkaroon sila ng kakayahan na tumayo sa sarili nilang pangkabuhayan,” she said.

Three-hundred indigent families who are beneficiaries of the SLP in Balungao, Pangasinan received PHP4.6 million seed capital from the DSWD for the project.

Under the GK3K program, the 12 associations will focus on carabao-breeding and carabao milk production in the first year of implementation and carabao milk, hide, and meat processing in the second year.

The local government of Balungao provided 10 hectares for carabao housing, forage area and vegetable production site, as well as other logistics and essential materials amounting to PHP4 million.

Balungao Municipal Mayor Maria Theresa Peralta emphasized the unified goal of ending hunger and centralizing programs for effective monitoring and support by local government units.

She shared that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has allocated 312 hectares for their convergence project. Of this, 15 hectares have been allotted for the development of forage areas.

On the other hand, the DA-PCC at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) has provided production supplies in addition to the two genetically superior bulls that will be entrusted to enhance breeding efforts. Recent training activities for 30 beneficiaries from 10 SLP associations were also conducted to improve dairy buffalo production and management skills.

The center is also committed to providing the services and interventions needed for the project to flourish.

Dr. Liza G. Battad, Executive Director of DA-PCC, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of this project.

“Agkakadwa kami [nga ahensya ti gobyerno] nga tumulong kadakayo, ngem masapol nga agdecide kayo nga tulungan ti pamilya yo [All of the agencies unite to help you, but you must decide to help your families too],” she said.

Dr. Battad cited successful models like the multi-millionaire Bantog Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Cooperative to illustrate the potential financial benefits of engaging in the carabao-based enterprise. She also introduced DA-PCC’s business models, including Milka Krem, Kardeli, and Dairy Box, among others.

She assured that the DA-PCC would remain readily available to provide assistance and pledged unwavering commitment to the convergence project.

Farm consultant and former Municipal Agriculturist Marilyn Lilagan is tasked with farm monitoring and providing technical advice to the beneficiaries.

The collaboration extends beyond local agencies. During a symbolic milk toast, representatives from the LGU, the Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Cooperative Development Authority, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, and the Commission on Population and Development showcased their united commitment to the project’s success.

The event culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the animal facility led by Mayor Peralta, DSWD Usec. Romualdez, Regional Director Gopalan, and DA-PCC Executive Director Battad, followed by a tour of the GK3K farm facilities.

Looking ahead, Mayor Peralta expressed enthusiasm for the project’s expansion, including additional housing and quarantine facilities planned for later this year.

Currently, the GK3K Farm is home to 56 carabaos being raised by the beneficiaries.

Fifteen carabao farmers from Bongabon, Nueva Ecija were capacitated in various aspects of buffalo management after a three-day training held at the Bongabon Session Hall from April 23-25.

The training kicked off with an introduction to breeds, breeding, and reproduction management discussed by Genaro Candelaria, project development officer of National Dairy Business Hub (NDBH). Candelaria emphasized the significance of proper management to ensure profitability from carabaos.

“We have to get our process and management right, so our carabao gives us the profit we expect,” he stated.

Milton Joseph Tamayo, project assistant of NDBH, discussed proper housing and waste management for carabaos, and the importance of comfort for the animals. He advised that carabao pens be oriented from east to west to shield them from direct sunlight.

Dr. Francisca Loida Cabana, municipal veterinarian of LGU Bongabon, highlighted the local government initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of farmers, urging them to seek assistance without hesitation. She also recognized the participation of women farmers in the training, who play significant roles in various aspects of the carabao value chain.

“We are delighted to see the active involvement of women in our training. Their contributions, spanning from management to marketing of the carabao and its by-products, are crucial to the success of our industry,” she said.

The training also included discussions on forage production, management and conservation, nutrition and feeding management, animal health management, proper milking and milk handling, herd management, and dairy safety regulation.

Participants expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm for the knowledge gained. Teresita Abrazaldo from the Olivete Association commended the quality of the training, saying that it’s different from any training she attended before.

“We appreciate the encouragement from the training team. Their commitment goes beyond the training and demonstrates the agency’s willingness to invest in us as beneficiaries of its program,” she shared.
Nomerlito Sales, another participant, expressed his hope for future training opportunities.

“We hope to participate in more learning events conducted by DA-PCC in the future. It did help me appreciate the role of carabao as more than just draft power but as a sustainable livelihood,” he said.

The training, conducted by the DA-PCC through the NDBH, not only equipped local farmers with necessary skills but also strengthened community ties and support networks within the agricultural sector in Bongabon.

The Cotabato Provincial Ordinance No. 684, also known as the Enhanced Carabao Propagation and Promotion Ordinance, has been enacted to bolster the local agricultural sector and uplift the livelihood of farmers.

This legislation aims to revitalize carabao farming, enhance productivity, and foster sustainable practices focusing on the preservation and promotion of carabao farming as a foundation of rural livelihood.

“At its core, the ordinance seeks to achieve multiple objectives, each designed to promote carabao farming and its associated industries. The implementation of this ordinance would lead to greater good of the cara-industry in the province,” DA-PCC at University of Southern Mindanao (DA-PCC at USM) Center Director Geoffray R. Atok said.

Director Atok also expressed his gratitude to the provincial government of Cotabato led by Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza who recognizes the crucial role of carabaos in agriculture. The ordinance prioritizes efforts to boost carabao population and productivity which will result in the resurgence in the number of carabaos across Cotabato Province.

In addition, the ordinance encourages the development of backyard dairy farming through carabao raising. By producing milk locally, smallholder farmers can meet the nutritional needs of their families while simultaneously reducing reliance on imported dairy products. This not only supports local farmers but also contributes to the economic sustainability of Cotabato by keeping revenue within the community.

Central to the ordinance is the institution of measures aimed at ensuring the full protection of carabaos, particularly breedable animals. Regulations on slaughter and transportation are put in place to safeguard the breeding stock and prevent depletion of the carabao population, ensuring its long-term sustainability.

The implementation of the Enhanced Carabao Propagation and Promotion Ordinance marks a transformative phase of agricultural advancement in Cotabato Province. This legislation not only promotes sustainable farming methods but also empowers farmers and ensures the well-being of carabaos. It sets an example for rural development and economic resilience in the entire region.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP) tapped the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) to capacitate and equip 30 new SLP beneficiaries in dairy buffalo production and management for its Gatasang Kalabaw Kontra Kagutoman at Kahirapan (GK3K) project on April 24-26, 2024, at the Convergence Site, San Andres, Balungao, Pangasinan.

The GK3K project is a Program Convergence Budgeting (PCB)-Zero Hunger initiative of DSWD-SLP in collaboration with DA-PCC, other national government agencies, and select local government units in Region 1. Its goal is to empower disadvantaged communities by establishing sustainable income streams through carabao-based enterprises.

Furthermore, the project aligns with the interagency task force on Zero Hunger’s goal of reducing the country’s hunger and poverty rates.

The Carabao Development Program (CDP) and Gender and Development were introduced to the participants with lectures on animal breeding and management, hygienic milk handling, feeds, feeding management, conservation and utilization, animal health, and record keeping.

On the last day of the training, participants were exposed to making enhanced rice straws (e-RS).

According to Paul Andrew Texon, operations head of DA-PCC at DMMMSU, the center expects beneficiaries to be inspired, determined, and prepared for the challenges they will face to succeed on the project after receiving technical training in dairy buffalo production.

Last year, on June 13-15, the same training was provided to 30 beneficiaries from two of Balungao’s 12 SLP associations. This year, another 30 select beneficiaries from the remaining 10 SLP associations completed the aforementioned training.

Priscila Cañaveral, president of the Mabuhay Esmeralda Sustainable Livelihood Program Association, expressed enthusiasm about raising carabaos. She mentioned that the training helped them realize that focus, diligence, perseverance, and unity are crucial factors for a successful carabao venture.

Texon also mentioned that DA-PCC will continuously provide support and services throughout their journey.

“Ang intervention ng DA-PCC ay hindi lang natatapos doon sa delivery of animals o ‘yong dairy production management training, kapag ginagatasan na ang mga kalabaw, magkakaroon din tayo ng pa-training sa dairy processing and enterprise development,” he said.

The GK3K project is the biggest convergence project nationwide to date.

The DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) recently received an appreciation certificate in recognition of its outstanding contributions to Agricultural Value Chain Development.

The certificate was presented to Dr. Liza Battad, Executive Director of DA-PCC, during the visit of delegates from the Asia-Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association Center for Training and Research in Agricultural Banking (APRACA CENTRAB) to the DA-PCC National Headquarters and Gene Pool today, April 25.

The commendation comes as part of the ongoing four-day tour titled “International Exposure Visit Program on Initiatives towards Enhancing Agricultural Value Chain Finance,” organized by APRACA CENTRAB under the guidance of Managing Editor Lecira Juarez.

The visit aimed to facilitate knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices.

Dr. Battad provided an overview of DA-PCC’s programs and mandate designed to promote agricultural value chain development, particularly the carabao value chain. She emphasized the significant support extended by the agency to small-scale farmers, which underscores its important role in sustainable agricultural development.

Discussions during the visit involved potential collaborations and teaming up for investment between DA-PCC and APRACA CENTRAB, especially in improving farming businesses. They highlighted how partnerships are crucial for making agricultural systems better.

The visit was attended by eight senior officers representing APRACA Member Institutions, including entities such as the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank-Cambodia, The Andhra Pradesh State Cooperative Bank Ltd-India, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)-India, and Bank of Ceylon-Sri Lanka, alongside four members of the APRACA CENTRAB Secretariat.

APRACA CENTRAB is an international organization comprising central banks, agricultural banks, development banks, commercial banks, apex organizations, rural development institutions, and non-governmental entities in the Asia-Pacific region focused on agricultural credit and rural development. Its mission closely aligns with the objectives of DA-PCC, as both entities work towards fostering sustainable agricultural growth and development.

The Kalaparan Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association, an assisted farmer group of DA-PCC at University of Southern Mindanao (DA-PCC at USM) in the City of Mati, has been identified as the primary supplier of carabao’s milk for over 7,500 students of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) School-based Feeding Program in Davao Oriental.

This partnership represents a major step towards integrating socioeconomic development with educational programs. Local farmers, who were previously landless, are now directly contributing to the welfare of schoolchildren in their community.

Geoffray Atok, center director of DA-PCC at USM, commended the strategy of empowering agrarian reform beneficiaries to address malnutrition among schoolchildren. He stated that this approach not only supports local farmers but also guarantees the provision of nutritious and locally sourced food to students.

The partnership between the KARBENA and DepEd is not only about providing milk; it symbolizes a broader effort to foster self-reliance and community resilience. By leveraging the resources within their community, the association members contribute to the sustainability of both their livelihoods and the school feeding program.

“This initiative exemplifies the potential of community-led solutions to address pressing social issues,” Director Atok said. “By harnessing the expertise and resources of local farmers, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable food system that benefits everyone,” he added.

The integration of carabao’s milk supplied by agrarian reform beneficiaries into the school feeding program underscores the importance of collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and grassroots organizations in achieving social change.

A farmers’ group in Asingan, Pangasinan with a starting capital of PHP10,000 managed to evolve into a thriving multimillion-peso co-op by venturing into carabao-based enterprises.

This is the “nuang-derful (a portmanteau of the words nuang or carabao and wonderful” transformation story of the Bantog Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BSNMPC), an assisted co-op of the DA-PCC at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU).

The BSNMPC’s transformative journey in the carabao industry was highlighted during the 1st Kalabaw Food Festival held on April 19-21 at the co-op’s newly established milk processing center and warehouse grounds.

The festival kicked off with a motorcade parade, showcasing the cooperative’s achievements. The event aimed to inspire the local community to embrace carabao production as a means to improve their livelihoods.

Established in 1973, the BSNMPC, formerly known as the Samahang Nayon Association, has faced numerous challenges over the years. However, the resilience and determination of its members have catapulted it into becoming a renowned cooperative in Pangasinan.

Fermin Jamias, one of the oldest members of the co-op, recounted their journey and mentioned their shift from an unsuccessful cattle venture to embracing carabao production. This transition was spurred by former DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Director Gloria Dela Cruz, who, inspired by the late Senator Leticia Ramos Shahani’s challenge, encouraged them to venture into carabao production for the betterment of Asingan municipality.

From humble beginnings with a PHP10,000 capital, BSNMPC now boasts assets exceeding PHP100 million—a testament to their growth and success in the industry.

The festival’s highlights on the first day included the inauguration of the co-op’s new milk processing center and warehouse and a series of events such as a carabao dress-up competition, which showcases creatively styled animals, and a carabeef cooking contest, where the carabeef pastil emerged as a winning dish.

Rolly Mateo Sr., BSNMPC’s chairperson, expressed gratitude for the support of partner agencies, including the LGU of Asingan, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), DA-PCC, and Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), among others.

DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Director Vilma Gagni reminisced about the cooperative’s history in carabao production. She noted that the original 25 headstocks were procured through Senator Ramon Magsaysay’s initiative, funded by the Department of Science and Technology on March 26, 2005.

Gagni acknowledged key contributors to the co-op’s success, including Senator Shahani, Secretary of Agrarian Reform Conrado Estrella III, Senator Cynthia Villar, and several government agencies such as the LGU of Asingan, CDA, DSWD, and DepEd.

Rowena Galang, OIC Chief of the DA-PCC Knowledge Management Division, emphasized the co-op’s achievements through strategic investments in facilities like the new milk processing center and warehouse.

Mateo, overwhelmed by the festival’s success, expressed joy in showcasing the significance of carabao’s milk.

“Napakasaya dahil dito namin naipakita ‘yong kahalagahan ng gatasang kalabaw kung saan marami na ang na-iinspire mag-alaga nito at naipaabot din namin ang pasasalamat sa mga katuwang naming iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno,” he said.

The second day of the festival underscored the importance of milk with activities such as milk feeding, where attendees, particularly children, enjoyed chocolate milk and Karabuns. Mateo was delighted to see the children’s happy faces, hopeful that these experiences would influence them to become future role models.

Additional events on the second day included a nuang parade, a drum and lyre exhibition, a Zumba dance contest, and a raffle with a grand prize of a carabao, all aimed at promoting the cultural significance of carabaos in community development.

On the final day, the cooperative held a general assembly where newly elected officers were sworn in by CDA Representative Mylene Mazo. The meeting also covered discussions on project updates and plans for 2024.
The evening’s festivities wrapped up with dinner, singing, and a best dressed competition.