By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the morning sun in Natividad, Pangasinan, a group of farmers stood proudly beside their new carabaos — symbols of hope and hard work for a better life. On October 30, the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) formally turned over 18 carabaos to beneficiaries from two Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPA).
The distribution marks another milestone in the government’s effort to strengthen rural development by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. The carabaos, known for their strength and reliability in farming, are expected to help improve agricultural productivity and family income among the beneficiaries.
Before receiving their animals, the farmers underwent a refresher course on forage production, conservation, and utilization from October 28 to 30. The training ensured that each recipient is well-equipped with the knowledge and skills to properly care for and manage their carabaos. Topics included animal nutrition, feed formulation, and pasture management—essential lessons to maintain animal health and maximize milk and meat yield.
According to the DA-PCC, providing carabaos is not just about giving livestock—it is about empowering farming families to build self-sustaining livelihoods. The program also helps promote the dairy and meat industries by encouraging local production and reducing dependence on imported animal products.
Local officials from Natividad expressed their gratitude to the DA-PCC and DMMMSU teams for bringing such meaningful support to their community. They emphasized that beyond the economic benefits, the project fosters cooperation, responsibility, and resilience among the beneficiaries.
For many of the recipients, the carabao represents a new beginning. It will help them plow their fields, transport goods, and generate income through dairy and meat products. “Malaking tulong po ito sa amin,” one farmer said. “Hindi lang po hayop ang ibinigay sa amin—kabuhayan po ito para sa aming pamilya.”
The DA-PCC continues to expand its programs across different provinces, focusing on training, livestock distribution, and research that will strengthen the country’s carabao industry. Through these initiatives, the agency envisions a future where Filipino farmers can achieve both productivity and prosperity through sustainable, livestock-based enterprises.
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