The DA-Philippine Carabo Center through the Research and Development Division (RDD) proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to the SOCCSKSARGEN Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (SOXAARRDEC) to establish a partnership focused on the development of the cara-industry in the region held last June 6 at USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The proposed MOU, initiated by Dr. Eric P. Palacpac, OIC Chief of DA-PCC RDD, seeks to establish a collaborative framework between the DA-PCC at USM and the SOXAARRDEC to strengthen research and development efforts in agriculture, aquatic and natural resources, with a specific focus on carabao-based innovations and sustainable livestock production practices. Dr. Palacpac also charted the various disciplinary areas of RDD to see where DA-PCC and SOXAARRDEC could collaborate.
During the MOU presentation, Dr. Josephine R. Migalbin, consortium director, along with representatives from the University of Southern Mindanao Research, Development, and Extension, highlighted the challenges of technology transfer. They focused on understanding the generated technology, identifying which technologies to feature, and determining the best modalities for carabao.
Dr. Geoffray R. Atok, director of DA-PCC at USM, emphasized the need for strong policy advocacy to accelerate technology implementation. He noted that dairy buffalo raisers have an advantage over regular farmers because carabao milk commands a premium price.
As DA-PCC at USM is a member of the consortium, this agreement will enhance technical cooperation and knowledge exchange among consortium institutions.
