12/08/2023
DA-NDA TURNS OVER FIRST PL 480 DAIRY CATTLE PROJECT IN DAVAO ORIENTAL
To promote and maximize the potential of dairy cattle farming, the Department of Agriculture-National Dairy Authority (DA-NDA) turned over 50 heads of Holstein Jersey breed to Don Mariano Marcos Livestock Raisers Association (DOMMALRAS) in Lupon, Davao Oriental.
Implemented under the US PL480 program, the P7.5 million project will enhance the potential of milk production in the province and would involve more farmers to complement the government’s efforts in addressing poverty, hunger, and malnutrition.
DA-11 Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo said that when it comes to dairy milk production, based on recent data, Philippines is only producing less than one percent of our total requirement and we are importing the balance.
The annual per capita milk consumption in the Philippines today is estimated at 22 kilograms with a growing population of roughly 107 million in 2020.
“Thus, this project is a big contribution in our quest to increase dairy milk production in the region. In fact, a cattle project will soon be established in Davao City. With the potential of Davao Oriental, surely these 50 heads will thrive well,” Monteagudo said.
Provincial Veterinarian Eric Dagmang projected the association’s dairy production of 300-400 liters of milk daily or 120,000 liters annually and an additional 20,000-30,000 monthly income per farmer.
Milk produced from the association will be delivered and processed to the Dairy Hub in Mati City for processing into bottled milk, flavored milk, and milk bars.
The Uswag Sustainable Livelihood Program Association and DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program Association in Lupon will serve as the marketing arm for the milk products.
Chairman of DOMMALRAS, Luciana Ambaic, thanked the DA-NDA for the additional livelihood for the community adding that with the high demand for milk, they vowed to sustain the project.
“With the vast potential of this
