Philippine Farmers Boost Economy with Dairy Buffalo Initiative

On July 24, 2026, in Barangay San Marcelino, Dingras, Ilocos Norte, the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) distributed 25 female dairy buffaloes valued at PHP2 million to local farmers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to stimulate rural economies by enhancing milk production locally.

The dairy buffalo entrustment program, led by the Department of Agriculture’s PCC at Mariano Marcos State University, is designed to provide sustainable income sources for smallholder farmers by integrating dairy buffalo farming into traditional agricultural practices. This latest distribution increases the community’s herd to a total of 54 buffaloes, following a previous allocation of 29 animals to the Timpuyog de San Marcelino SLPA.

The program operates through a social contract model, which obligates participating farmers’ associations to maintain the initial breeding stock while expanding their herds through offspring. To support this, the PCC offers comprehensive training in buffalo management and feeding before the turnover, and continues to provide technical guidance and herd monitoring.

To secure a stable income for farmers, the PCC purchases raw carabao milk directly from them and connects them with institutional buyers. These channels include the Department of Education’s School-Based Feeding Program and the DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program, ensuring a reliable cash flow for the farmers.

The project is supported by local government efforts, notably under the leadership of Mayor Joemelle Go Sy and with district funding from Representative Eugenio Angelo Marcos Barba. The initiative aims to transform Dingras into a model community for livestock diversification in Northern Luzon, offering a template for similar regions to replicate.