By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside the halls of the Philippine Carabao Center, a sense of pride and renewed responsibility filled the air as employees took their oaths for new roles. For many, the moment marked years of hard work and quiet service finally recognized. For the agency, it was another step toward building a stronger team to support farmers and the livestock sector.
The Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center announced a series of promotions and permanent appointments, reinforcing its commitment to professional growth, merit-based advancement, and institutional excellence. The personnel movements include the first promotion for 2026 and several promotions and appointments granted throughout 2025.
DA-PCC Executive Director Dr. Liza Battad congratulated the newly promoted and appointed employees and reminded them to remain grounded as they take on greater responsibilities. She stressed that character and humility should remain unchanged, regardless of position or rank.
Dr. Battad said employees should continue showing the same dedication, respect, and work ethic they had before their promotion or regularization. She emphasized that leadership in public service is not about titles, but about serving with integrity and setting a good example for others.
The first promotion for 2026 was awarded to Ma. Cecilia I. Mariano, who moved up from Information Officer I to Information Officer III under the Knowledge Management Division. She officially took her oath on January 19.
Several promotions were also recognized for 2025 at the DA-PCC National Headquarters. Rowena S. Galang was promoted from Information Officer III to Information Officer IV and now serves as officer-in-charge chief of the Knowledge Management Division. Mary Lei Bautista advanced from Administrative Officer IV to Administrative Officer V under the Administrative, Finance, and Management Division. Joshua G. Villanueva moved from Accountant II to Project Evaluation Officer III, while Estella P. Valiente was promoted from Science Research Specialist II to Project Development Officer III. All took their oaths on August 5.
Promotions were likewise granted to personnel in regional centers, reflecting DA-PCC’s nationwide operations. Rodolfo T. Valdez Jr. of DA-PCC at the University of Southern Mindanao was promoted to Science Research Specialist I. At Mariano Marcos State University, Joel Cabading rose to Supervising Science Research Specialist, while Melinda Galacgac advanced to Science Research Specialist I. At Central Luzon State University, Rebecca Ruby Gabriel was promoted to Senior Science Research Specialist. These oaths were taken between March and November 2025.
In addition to promotions, DA-PCC also announced several appointments to permanent positions in 2025. Mikee A. Antonio and Giselle Sacupaso were appointed to key roles at the national level, while Mary Antonette Andarza, Jenefie B. Malinog, and Daisy L. Montejo were appointed to permanent posts in regional centers, including West Visayas State University and the Mindanao Livestock Production Center.
The DA-PCC Human Resource Merit Promotion and Selection Board said these movements reflect the agency’s sustained effort to recognize competence, reward performance, and strengthen its workforce. By investing in its people, the agency aims to improve service delivery and support its core mandate.
The Philippine Carabao Center plays a vital role in improving carabao production, dairy development, and livestock research across the country. Its programs directly support small farmers by improving productivity, increasing income, and promoting food security.
Officials said a strong and motivated workforce is essential to achieving these goals. Promotions and regular appointments help ensure continuity, accountability, and professionalism in delivering services to farming communities.
As newly promoted staff step into their roles, DA-PCC leaders expressed confidence that the strengthened team will continue to uphold the agency’s mission. With experienced and committed personnel in place, the center aims to further advance livestock development and serve as a reliable partner of Filipino farmers.
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