The DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Central Mindanao University (DA-PCC at CMU) and the Province of Bukidnon signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of the Carabao Development Program (CPD) on January 17, 2025, at Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
The partnership aims to promote agricultural development by providing policy frameworks, public investments, support services for agricultural business enterprises, and technical assistance to livestock clients.
The Bukidnon Tagoloanon Mulahay Ha Kabukalagan Agriculture Cooperative (BUKTAMACO), an Indigenous Peoples’ cooperative in Bukidnon, was identified as a conduit cooperative in the program’s implementation.
According to Dr. Lowell Paraguas, center director of DA-PCC at CMU, the center will take the lead in organizing learning events for farmers and business owners that will increase their competitiveness in the dairy industry and, as a result, improve the province’s local dairy industry.
“Hopefully, the expansion of this program will succeed through meaningful collaborations and strong partnerships that can reach other areas of Bukidnon,” Dr. Paraguas added.
Provincial Governor Rogelio Roque shared his message of support that the province and co-op will closely cooperate with local government units and other partners to ensure that the resources will be used to improve the livelihood of the community.
“The Provincial Government Unit of Bukidnon will share its available resources and support, creating collaborative opportunities in the implementation of the Carabao Development Program of DA-PCC, and providing assistance to all carabao owners,” Governor Roque said.
The MOA was signed by Dr. Paraguas and Gov. Roque, and witnessed by DA-PCC at CMU CBED Coordinator Dr. Elena Paraguas, and Acting Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Kharinine Escasinas.
