By Kenneth Marcos 
Before sunrise in rural Cagayan, farmers gathered with quiet excitement. For many of them, the arrival of livestock means more than farm work. It means food on the table, steady income, and hope for their families’ future. That hope became real when they received pregnant carabaos from the government just before Christmas.
Fifteen pregnant crossbred carabaos were formally turned over to farmer-members of the Providence Multi-purpose Cooperative in Cagayan on December 22. The animals were provided by the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center based at Cagayan State University (DA-PCC at CSU).
The distribution followed months of preparation. Beneficiaries first underwent social preparation activities and training on carabao production and management. These sessions focused on proper animal care, feeding, breeding, and basic farm business skills to ensure the farmers are ready to manage and sustain the livestock.
The turnover was carried out through the Carabao-Based Enterprise Development (CBED) section of DA-PCC at CSU. Officials said the program is part of the Carabao Herd Buildup (CHBU) project, a national initiative aimed at increasing the country’s carabao population and boosting local milk production.
Under the CHBU project, farmer-beneficiaries are entrusted with pregnant female carabaos, also known as inahin. Once the animals give birth, the farmers raise them for milk production and breeding. Over time, this helps expand the local herd while providing families with a steady source of income from milk sales and value-added dairy products.
The Philippine Carabao Center said carabaos remain vital to smallholder farmers, especially in rural areas. Aside from providing milk, carabaos are used for farm labor and can be a source of additional income through the sale of calves. Crossbred carabaos, in particular, are known for higher milk yield compared to native breeds.
Dairy development is a key priority for the government as the Philippines continues to rely heavily on imported milk. By supporting small-scale dairy farmers, agencies hope to reduce import dependence while improving nutrition and livelihood in the countryside.
Members of the Providence Multi-purpose Cooperative expressed gratitude for the support, saying the program gives them a chance to build a sustainable enterprise. Cooperative-based projects also help farmers share resources, knowledge, and market access, making it easier for small producers to succeed.
DA-PCC officials emphasized that the program is not a one-time handout. Continuous monitoring, technical assistance, and training will be provided to ensure the animals remain healthy and productive. Veterinarians and technicians will regularly visit the farms to guide beneficiaries on proper care and disease prevention.
Cagayan is among the provinces being strengthened for dairy and livestock development due to its wide agricultural land and active farming communities. Programs like CHBU are seen as long-term investments that support food security, rural employment, and inclusive growth.
As the farmers lead their new carabaos to their sheds, the responsibility is clear. With proper care and cooperation, these animals can multiply, produce milk, and create lasting benefits not only for individual families but for the wider community.
The project reflects the government’s continued push to empower farmers through livestock development, helping them move from survival farming to stable, income-generating enterprises.
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