The Arya Sta. Maria Dairy SLP Association finally embarked on its journey in carapreneurship following the inauguration and blessing of the carabao housing and entrustment of six buffaloes by the Department of Social Welfare and Development—Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP), Local Government Unit—Sta. Maria, and DA-Philippine Carabao Center at DMMMSU in San Patricio, Sta Maria, Pangasinan on October 4, 2024.
Mayor Julius Ramos stated during the activity that the beneficiaries should value this new venture because it has provided them with the opportunity to improve their lives. He emphasized that a successful project requires dedication and patience from all team members.
DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Director Vilma C. Gagni emphasized the importance of patience and hard work when starting a carabao business.
“Matagal ang development ng kalabaw. Hinihintay ng tatlong taon ang dalagang kalabaw bago ito mapabuntis at madadagdagan ulit ito ng 10 buwan bago manganak. Pagkatapos nito, ang inahing kalabaw ay gagatasan din ng 10 buwan,” she said.
Director Gagni also highlighted the success of Bantog Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Cooperative, which has been in the carabao industry for nearly two decades and is now reaping the benefits of its dedication, determination, and hard work.
The DSWD-SLP Pangasinan II allocated PHP450,000 from its seed capital fund to purchase six crossbred buffaloes. In December 2024, DA-PCC at DMMMSU will entrust an additional five pregnant carabaos to the association, alongside providing technical training and services.
Mayor Ramos also pledged further support, committing to donate 10 additional buffaloes next year to boost the initiative. The local government has already supported the establishment of the buffalo shelter and forage area.
Since the Gatasang Kalabaw Kontra Kagutuman at Kahirapan is a convergence project, Provincial Coordinator of DSWD-SLP Pangasinan II Ronald Gabriel mentioned that other national government agencies will provide additional capital to improve the project once its success is evident.
Grace Dela Cruz, DSWD-SLP Pangasinan II Provincial Partnership Officer, stated that the next phase of the project will focus on monitoring, with added assistance from agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) for further training and capacity building.
The 30 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries were socially prepared and capacitated with technical knowledge and skills in dairy buffalo production and management last September 18-20, 2024.
Now, the Arya Sta. Maria SLPA is ready to move forward, committed to the successful rearing of their buffaloes, including a newborn calf, and the sustainability of the convergence project, which promises to improve the lives of its members.
