The Masinloc Farmers’ Agriculture Cooperative (MFAC) received 18 pregnant dairy buffaloes under the Dairy Herd Buildup Program (DHBP) of the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC), facilitated through the initiative of Sen. Cynthia Villar. The ceremonial entrustment was held on June 28, 2024, at the Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Masinloc, Zambales.
Dr. Ericson N. Dela Cruz, center director of DA-PCC at CLSU, beamed with pride as he announced the historic entrustment of the pregnant buffaloes to the MFAC farmers. He mentioned that these buffaloes will aid farmers in improving their livelihoods.
Engr. Noel Mirabel, speaking on behalf of Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Jeffry Nawen, shared invaluable insights on dairy buffalo production and management and highlighted the opportunity this program presents for farmers.
Dr. Caro B. Salces, deputy executive director of DA-PCC, emphasized the significance of supporting local produce, particularly products made from carabao’s meat and milk.
Engr. Sharlene Garcia representing Sen. Cynthia Villar, delivered Sen. Villar’s video message and emphasized the mission to achieve 100% of locally produced milk. The goal was to ensure that every child receives the nourishment necessary for them to grow strong, intelligent, and healthy.
“Ang mga kalabaw na ito ay dagdag sa naunang 40 head of dairy buffaloes na natanggap ninyo para sa inyong mga miyembro. Upang makamit ang layunin na mapataas ang local milk production ay dapat magkaroon ng tamang breed ng dairy animal, wastong pagpapakain, tamang kulungan, at tamang teknik ng paggagatas at processing nito para makarating sa ating mga kababayan,” Sen. Villar said in a video message.
In a subsequent video message, Undersecretary for Livestock Deogracias Victor Savellano underscored that the program exemplifies Sen. Villar’s unwavering commitment to improving farmers’ lives by providing essential support and facilities.
Hermenegildo Manglicmot, chairperson of MFAC, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the blessing their co-op received. He pledged to diligently care for the buffaloes and affirmed the cooperative’s commitment to sustaining such programs in the future.
The dairy buffaloes, raised and bred at the DA-PCC National Bull Farm, were carefully taken care of to ensure they were healthy and strong before being handed over to the farmers.
