The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Carabao Center at Central Luzon State University unveiled the 2nd Dairy Box in Zambales, marking a milestone as the 6th in Region III.
The Dairy Box was turned over to the Castillejos Farmers’ Agriculture Cooperative (CFAC) on June 26, 2024 at the Government Center, San Nicolas, Castillejos, Zambales.
The one-stop shop offers locals delicious buffalo milk products and supports small-scale dairy farmers by providing market access and opportunities.
Additionally, the CFAC received equipment and animals from DA-PCC programs, with support from Sen. Cynthia Villar’s office.
In the first part of the program, member of Congress Camille Villar and Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, with the blessing officiated by Rev. Fr. Joel T. Huerto.
“Napakahalaga ng ibinigay ng ating mahal na Sen. Villar. Makatutulong ito sa ating kooperatiba at kababayan sa Castillejos,” Mayor Khonghun expressed.
Dr. Ericson N. Dela Cruz, DA-PCC at CLSU center director, envisioned a thriving dairy industry, with the Dairy Box as an important component to success.
“Kami sa DA-PCC ay buong pwersa na nandito para magbigay ng suportang teknikal at sosyal,” he said.
According to Ma. Theresa Sawit, DA-PCC National Carabao-based Enterprise Development coordinator, the event highlighted collaboration, community development, and a commitment to uplifting the people of Castillejos.
Rep. Villar shared her mother’s vision for farmers and agriculture, underscoring the Dairy Box’s role in elevating livelihoods.
“Ang mama ko [Sen. Cynthia Villar] ay mahal na mahal ang mga magsasaka at isinusulong ang kapakanan ng agriculture sector as a whole. Ang Dairy Box ay naging kapaki-pakinabang na daan upang maipaabot sa publiko ang dairy products ng mga dairy farmers at isa rin itong epektibong paraan para isulong ang industriya ng gatas sa ating bansa at sana ay mas dumami pa ang mga Dairy Box dito sa Pilipinas,” she shared.
Estella Valiente, DA-PCC Carabo-based Business Improvement Network Project Focal, shared stories of transformation and gratitude, highlighting hope and prosperity.
Bernabe Ladislao, Board of Directors of CFAC, and Randy Serafica, Vice President of CFAC, expressed collective gratitude on behalf of all CFAC members for the support they received for the project and for being recipients of the Dairy Box.
The Dairy Box showcases a delectable array of products such as chocolate milk, yogurt, pastillas, and more.
The event was attended by DA-PCC at CLSU staff, barangay captains, LGU staff, Sanggunian Bayan members, councilors, farm owners, and CFAC members.
