By Kenneth Marcos 
Before sunrise in Malaybalay City, dairy farmers from nearby towns gathered quietly at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex. Many traveled for hours, hoping to learn new ways to care for their animals and improve the milk they bring to market.
On November 26, local dairy farmers attended a seminar on the Animal Welfare Act and Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) in Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. The event was led by experts from the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office 10 Regulatory Division, with support from the National Dairy Authority.
Resource speakers explained how proper animal care leads to better farm productivity. They highlighted Republic Act 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act, which sets standards for humane treatment of farm animals. The law requires safe shelter, clean food and water, and handling methods that prevent stress and injury. According to the speakers, these rules apply not only to large commercial farms but also to small backyard dairies common across Bukidnon.
The DA team also presented the principles of Good Animal Husbandry Practices. These include maintaining clean barns, providing regular veterinary care, following correct milking procedures, and keeping detailed farm records. They emphasized that healthy animals produce safer and higher-quality milk, which can help farmers secure better prices in the market.
Participants were given practical tips on disease prevention, proper feeding, and early signs of illness in dairy cows and buffaloes. The trainers reminded farmers that early treatment protects both the animal and the farmer’s livelihood. Discussions also covered responsible antibiotic use, waste management, and biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of infection between farms.
The National Dairy Authority shared that it continues to promote humane and science-based care for dairy animals nationwide. The agency stressed that good welfare practices do not only improve milk yield but also support the long-term growth of the Philippine dairy industry. With rising demand for locally produced milk, NDA said farmers must be equipped with updated knowledge to meet quality and safety standards.
Farmers who joined the seminar said the lessons were practical and timely. Many expressed interest in applying the new techniques, especially with the growing number of small dairy cooperatives in Bukidnon. Organizers noted the high turnout as a sign that local farmers want to develop the industry through ethical and responsible farming.
As the program ended, trainers encouraged participants to share what they learned with other farmers in their communities. They said proper animal care is not only a legal duty but also a key step in building a stronger and more sustainable dairy sector in Northern Mindanao.
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