By Kenneth Marcos 
At dawn in many rural barangays, farmers lead their carabaos to open fields, preparing them for another day of work or milking. For families who depend on carabao milk and meat for income, proper feeding is not just routine—it is the key to better livelihood.
The Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) reminds raisers that the quality of milk and meat from carabaos depends heavily on the right kind of forage. Forage refers to grasses and plant parts fed to livestock. Choosing nutritious and suitable forage helps ensure healthier animals and higher milk production.
Among the commonly recommended forage species are Napier grass, Guinea grass, and Para grass. These grasses are known for their high yield and good nutritional value. Napier grass, in particular, is widely used because it grows fast, produces large biomass, and is easy to propagate through cuttings. Leguminous plants such as Indigofera and Centrosema are also encouraged. These are rich in protein and help improve milk yield and animal growth.
Experts explain that combining grasses and legumes provides balanced nutrition. Grasses supply energy, while legumes add protein and minerals. Clean water and proper feeding schedules are also important to maintain animal health.
Aside from being nutritious, many of these forage crops are affordable and easy to grow in backyards or small farms. Farmers can plant them along field borders or vacant lots. With proper care, these plants can provide a steady feed supply throughout the year, reducing dependence on costly commercial feeds.
The carabao remains a vital partner in Philippine agriculture, especially in dairy development programs. By improving feeding practices, raisers can increase milk quality, boost income, and support local food security.
Healthy animals start with the right feed. For carabao owners, investing time in growing quality forage can lead to better harvests—not from the field, but from the barn.
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