Members of the Surong Dairy Farm Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA) have pledged their dedication to the Gatasang Kalabaw Kontra Kahirapan at Kagutuman (GK3K) project, following the completion of a four-day Buffalo Production and Management Training. The closing ceremony was held on February 14, 2025, at Balay Pavilion, Poblacion, Bani, Pangasinan.
“Pinapangako namin na pagbubutihan, pagsisikapan, at isasapuso namin ang pakikipagsapalaran sa larangan ng pagkakalabawan,” Rey Vica Tabalon, president of SLPA, committed.
Thirty members underwent a lecture series that aims to provide them with practical knowledge and skills to manage buffalo farming operations, increase productivity, ensure animal welfare, and maximize returns through sustainable practices in breeding, feeding, disease management, and milk handling.
With the beneficiaries’ commitment to their livelihood, DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Chief Vilma Gagni promised to support them by providing five pregnant buffaloes and offering additional training and interventions as their livelihood progresses. She also hopes that the unity among the members will lead to the success of the project, serving as an inspiration to other farmers interested in the buffalo enterprise.
In addition, Municipal Councilor Ronaldo Catabay, expressed his appreciation for the sustainable livelihood the members have chosen to venture into. He congratulated the members, encouraged them to do their best for the project’s success, and assured them of LGU-Bani’s support.
“Asahan niyo ang aming suporta. Kung ano man ang inyong mga kailangan, lapitan niyo lang ang lokal na pamahalaan sapagka’t handa kaming tumulong sa proyektong ito sa ating bayan,” Councilor Catabay said.
Sheila Carlit, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer in Bani, envisions that the 1st District in Pangasinan will be able to produce dairy products, which will not only be recognized in Bani but in the whole province. She assured the members that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and DA-PCC would support and assist them.
“Magiging madali ito para sa inyo kapag isinasapuso niyo ang ibinigay na pangkabuhayan. Nasa inyong kamay kung paano niyo ito palalaguin at ipapanalo,” said Rozel Arig, PDO II of DSWD-SLP Region 1, to further encourage and motivate the members of the project.
The GK3K in Bani is one of the many projects of the DSWD-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP) in Pangasinan that aims to improve the socio-economic conditions of the beneficiaries through sustainable enterprises and boost the carabao and livestock industries.
