The DA-PCC at Visayas State University (DA-PCC at VSU) is soon to lead the establishment of a milk processing and marketing facility in support of the Coconut-Carabao Development Project (CCDP) in Visayas.
Groundworks to realize this cause was discussed during the visit of the DA-PCC national headquarters team led by Deputy Executive Director for Production and Research Dr. Claro N. Mingala with Research and Development Division Chief Dr. Marvin A. Villanueva to Kangara Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Carigara, Leyte last April 21.
A memorandum of agreement will be signed between the DA-PCC at VSU and the cooperative represented by co-op Chairperson Herminia Carolino, General Manager Dominador Sudario, and DA-PCC at VSU staff Dr. Ivy Fe Lopez. After the turnover of the facilities, the cooperative will be in charge of the implementation of the project.
The project, a partnership between the DA-PCC and the DA-Philippine Coconut Authority, aims to contribute milk supply to the Milk Feeding Program implemented under Republic Act No. 11037 otherwise known as “Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino.” This means livelihood opportunities will abound benefitting the co-op members of the cooperatives, partnership between the co-op and the DA-PCC will be strengthened, and the benefits of carapreneurship as an additional profitable business venture will be promoted in the locality.
During the visit, Dr. Mingala and the team also met with DA-PCC at VSU Center Director Francisco Gabunada to discuss collaboration on research, extension, and instruction, and in other areas or disciplines where the use of different commodities and resources of several funding agencies may be beneficial. VSU College of Veterinary Science and Medicine Dean Dr. Santiago Peña Jr., Department of Animal Science Head Dr. Manuel Gacutan Jr., and College of Agriculture staff joined the exploratory meeting.
VSU Vice President for Research, Extension and Innovation Dr. Maria Juliet Ceniza welcomed the party prior to their tour of the university.
