News Details

Batac Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Empowered with Dairy Buffaloes to Boost Local Milk Production

NPO

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October 31, 2025

BATAC CITY – A group of agrarian reform beneficiaries in this city has taken a significant step toward agricultural empowerment and nutrition sustainability with the turnover of 10 dairy buffaloes from the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC).

Valued at approximately PHP800,000, the buffaloes were entrusted to the Camguidan Multi-Purpose Cooperative to strengthen local dairy production and meet the increasing demand for carabao milk and milk-based products in Ilocos Norte.

“They are the latest beneficiaries under our carabao upgrading program aimed at expanding dairy production in the Ilocos Region,” said PCC Director Joel Cabading, who emphasized the project’s role in improving farmers’ income while addressing malnutrition.

In partnership with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), the DA-PCC at Mariano Marcos State University conducted a comprehensive training on dairy buffalo management and milk production on October 28 to equip the cooperative with the technical know-how needed for sustainability.

“This entrustment is more than just handing over assets; it’s an investment in your future—a symbol of our government’s commitment to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers,” said Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Jessamine Jimenez during the turnover ceremony.

As part of the agreement, PCC will continue to provide technical and marketing support to ensure that the cooperative develops a profitable and sustainable dairy enterprise.

Members of the Camguidan Multi-Purpose Cooperative expressed gratitude to DA-PCC, DAR, and the local government of Batac City for helping strengthen their livelihood initiatives. The cooperative, one of the province’s top performers, is also recognized for producing rice crisps used in local school feeding programs.

Through this initiative, DA-PCC and DAR reaffirm their shared commitment to rural development—empowering farmers with resources, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in the growing Philippine dairy industry.

NPO News Team | PNA-PR