By Kenneth Marcos 
On a quiet January morning in Tuguegarao City, university halls once filled only with students and professors became the site of a renewed promise for Philippine agriculture. Leaders from Cagayan State University (CSU) and the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) gathered to formalize a long-term partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s livestock industry and supporting farmers who depend on it for their daily income.
On January 30, CSU and DA-PCC signed a new 25-year Memorandum of Agreement at the CSU campus in Caritan Sur, Tuguegarao City. The agreement renews and expands the role of CSU as a host university for DA-PCC programs, following the mandate of Republic Act No. 7307, which created the Philippine Carabao Center. It also reflects the expanded scope of the agency under Republic Act No. 12308, which allows DA-PCC to conduct research and development not only on carabaos but also on other livestock.
Under the renewed agreement, DA-PCC will continue to operate and strengthen its research, training, and extension services in partnership with CSU. The focus is on improving livestock productivity, animal health, and farm sustainability. These efforts are expected to benefit farmers, students, and local communities across Cagayan Valley and nearby regions.
Officials said the long-term nature of the agreement provides stability for research and development programs. With a 25-year timeframe, both institutions can plan and invest in facilities, scientific studies, and human resource development without disruption. This includes breeding programs, feed development, disease control, and technology transfer to farmers.
The new agreement also expands research beyond carabaos to include other farm animals such as cattle, goats, and possibly small ruminants. This broader scope responds to the growing demand for meat and dairy products in the country, as well as the need to raise farm incomes and reduce dependence on imports. Livestock remains a vital source of food and livelihood for many Filipino families, especially in rural areas.
For CSU, the partnership strengthens its role as a center for agricultural learning and innovation. Students and faculty members gain access to national-level research programs, modern facilities, and hands-on training. This helps prepare graduates for careers in agriculture, veterinary science, and rural development. University officials noted that collaboration with DA-PCC also raises the quality of local research and encourages solutions that are practical and suited to local conditions.
For DA-PCC, working with a state university ensures that research findings reach the ground. Extension programs conducted through CSU can directly engage farmers, cooperatives, and local government units. Training sessions, field demonstrations, and on-site technical support help farmers adopt better practices, improve animal health, and increase productivity.
Agriculture officials have long stressed that strong partnerships between government agencies and academic institutions are key to modernizing Philippine agriculture. Research alone is not enough. Knowledge must be shared, tested, and adapted in real farm settings. The renewed CSU–DA-PCC agreement reflects this approach by combining science, education, and community service.
As climate challenges, rising costs, and food security concerns continue to affect the country, sustained investments in livestock research and development are seen as crucial. The 25-year agreement signals a commitment to long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.
With the signing of this new pact, CSU and DA-PCC reaffirm their shared goal of building a stronger, more resilient livestock sector. For farmers and communities who rely on animal farming for food and income, the partnership offers hope that science, education, and cooperation can help secure a better future.
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