The Hibunawan Integrated Farmer’s Association (HIFA), a farmer’s group assisted by the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Visayas State University (DA-PCC at VSU), received 50 head of dairy buffaloes during the ceremonial turnover on October 15, 2024, in Brgy. Maganhan, Baybay City, Leyte.
The initiative was part of the government’s ongoing effort to support sustainable agriculture by providing high-yielding breeds of dairy animals, which can significantly increase milk production and farmers’ income.
Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos L. Cari shared his experiences with carabao raising and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of DA-PCC, PCA, and other partner agencies in buffalo entrustment.
Mayor Cari emphasized that the main purpose of this project is to enhance the living standards of the local farmers. He also highlighted the importance of the nutrition program, which has a big role in providing nutritious food options for families and communities. The mayor assured his full support for the Coconut Carabao Development Project (CCDP).
DA-PCC at VSU Center Director Francisco G. Gabunada Jr. expressed his gratitude to the local government of Baybay, PCA, and Senator Cynthia A. Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform. He provided an overview of the CCDP, explaining that the entrustment of dairy animals is a strategic approach aimed at enhancing livelihood, particularly among smallholder farmers. This initiative will enable farmers to generate income through milk production, providing a stable and ongoing source of revenue.
Director Gabunada also emphasized that DA-PCC will offer technical assistance through training programs designed to empower local farmers with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve productivity, ensure animal welfare, and enhance their overall livelihoods. He stressed that the success of this program “is all in their hands.”
The entrustment was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), marking the beginning of a transformative partnership among the farmers, PCA, and DA-PCC.
