By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the year, city officials and agriculture leaders gathered with a shared goal: to help farmers earn more and strengthen local food production. Inside the National Dairy Authority’s central office, discussions focused on how corn fields in San Pablo City could soon support a growing dairy industry.
NDA Administrator Atty. Marcus Antonius T. Andaya and Acting Department Manager for Operations Rowena E. Bautista met with Executive Assistant IV Marlon Mangahas from the Office of the City Mayor of San Pablo City, Laguna. The meeting discussed the city government’s plan to expand corn silage production and link farmers to dairy development programs.
The initiative is being led by San Pablo City Mayor Arcadio “Najie” B. Gapangada Jr. The program aims to strengthen local agriculture by providing proper training and designating specific land areas for corn and silage farming. Corn silage is a key feed for dairy animals and plays an important role in improving milk production.
Under the plan, farmers who will grow corn for silage will receive technical training to improve yields and ensure quality feed. Proper silage production helps livestock maintain good health and produce more milk. This, in turn, supports a more stable supply of dairy products for local markets.
Officials said that identifying and securing land for silage farming is a crucial step. With guaranteed planting areas, farmers can focus on production without worrying about land access. This also allows the city government and national agencies to plan support programs more effectively.
Another major part of the initiative is organizing corn and silage farmers into cooperatives. By working as cooperatives, farmers gain stronger bargaining power, better access to government programs, and improved chances of long-term sustainability.
Once organized, these cooperatives will be eligible to participate in the NDA’s animal dispersal programs. Through these programs, qualified farmers can receive dairy animals, such as cattle or buffaloes, to start or expand milk production. The approach links crop farming with livestock raising, creating multiple sources of income for farming families.
The NDA said this integrated system helps build a stronger local dairy industry. Instead of relying heavily on imported milk, communities can produce their own supply while supporting local farmers. This also helps keep money circulating within the local economy.
San Pablo City has long been known for its agricultural areas, but like many farming communities, it faces challenges such as rising input costs and limited income opportunities. Officials believe that combining corn silage production with dairy farming can help farmers earn more consistently throughout the year.
Agriculture experts noted that dairy farming works best when farmers have access to affordable and reliable feed. Producing corn silage locally lowers feeding costs and reduces dependence on commercial feeds. This makes dairy farming more viable, especially for small-scale farmers.
The NDA emphasized that partnerships with local government units are key to the success of such programs. Local governments understand the needs of their communities and can help ensure that support reaches the right beneficiaries.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to continue coordination and planning. Further discussions are expected to focus on training schedules, land preparation, and cooperative formation.
As the program moves forward, officials hope it will serve as a model for other cities and towns. Strengthening corn silage production and dairy farming at the local level supports food security, rural employment, and a more resilient agriculture sector.
For farmers in San Pablo City, the initiative offers new opportunities to grow, diversify income, and build a stronger future for their families and communities.
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