By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet towns of South Cotabato, carabaos are more than just farm animals — they are lifelines. From plowing fields to producing fresh milk, these “beasts of burden” are deeply woven into the lives of rural families. And now, efforts to modernize and expand this vital industry are gaining new ground.
On a recent working visit, Dr. Liza G. Battad, Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC), led key discussions with the Executive Committee of DA-PCC at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM). The goal: to review the progress of major programs and identify ways to improve support for local carabao farmers.
Programs under review included the Genetic Improvement Program (GIP), which aims to produce healthier, stronger carabaos with better milk yield; the Carabao-based Enterprise Development (CBED), which helps farmers build small businesses using carabao products; and the ALAB-Karbawan initiative, which supports milk production and value-adding ventures.
Also on the agenda were updates on the Research for Development (R4D) projects and the Carabao Herd Buildup (CHBU), a program focused on increasing the number and quality of carabaos across the region.
During the meeting, the team also discussed the latest carabao industry briefer — a document that outlines the current situation and challenges faced by the sector in Mindanao. Among the key issues highlighted were limited access to markets, production gaps, and the need for more advanced breeding techniques.
Following the executive meeting, Dr. Battad visited several Dairy Box outlets in Sta. Catalina, Roxas, and Surallah. These small shops are run by local cooperatives and serve as important points of sale for fresh carabao milk and other dairy products. Cooperative members shared their success stories, ongoing challenges, and their plans to grow operations further.
Dr. Battad assured them of continued support from the DA-PCC, especially in areas like technical training, equipment access, and enterprise development. She emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships between government and farmer groups to create sustainable livelihoods.
The Dairy Box model has become a symbol of rural empowerment — giving farmers a way to earn more while bringing nutritious dairy products closer to Filipino families. Each success story in these stores shows how investing in carabaos can lead to stronger incomes, healthier communities, and better futures for the next generation.
The DA-PCC’s ongoing efforts are part of a larger national strategy to strengthen the livestock sector, improve food security, and uplift farming communities across the country. With consistent government backing and strong local cooperation, the humble carabao may soon carry not just goods and people — but also the hope for a more resilient agricultural economy.
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