By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet barangay of Bayaoas in Urbiztondo, Pangasinan, farmers gathered with excitement as 42 dairy goats were turned over to two local associations—marking another step toward strengthening the province’s growing dairy industry.
The National Dairy Authority (NDA), led by Administrator Atty. Marcus Antonius T. Andaya, personally turned over the goats and signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the two beneficiary groups: the Urbiztondo Livelihood Association Inc., headed by Atty. Cecilia O. Perez, and the Hacienda Adventure Nature’s Resort, led by Mr. Emelito B. Tecson of Tagudin, Mabini. Each group received 21 dairy goats to jumpstart or expand their local dairy production.
Joining Atty. Andaya were Ms. Rowena Bautista, Acting Operations Manager, and Dr. Edelyn David, Veterinary IV, who provided technical assistance and explained the proper management of dairy goats. The team also met with Urbiztondo Mayor Modesto Mejia Operaña and local farmers to discuss the NDA’s ongoing projects and explore ways to boost dairy livelihood support in the area.
According to Atty. Andaya, the turnover aims to increase milk production, improve rural incomes, and strengthen local dairy enterprises across Northern Luzon. “Through these programs, we are not only providing livestock but also building sustainable opportunities for farmers to grow their livelihood,” he said.
The NDA program is part of the government’s effort to lessen the country’s dependence on imported milk. At present, the Philippines imports over 99% of its dairy supply, leaving local farmers with a small but growing share in the domestic market. By introducing quality dairy goats and training communities in proper breeding and milk handling, the NDA hopes to expand local dairy production and create more income sources in rural areas.
Farmers who received the goats will also undergo regular training and monitoring to ensure proper care, breeding, and milk collection. The goats are expected to produce fresh milk that can be processed into cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products—providing long-term income for participating families.
Mayor Operaña expressed his gratitude to the NDA for its continued support, saying the program will help many small farmers in Urbiztondo gain steady income and promote local agribusiness.
This initiative forms part of the government’s “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas” vision, which focuses on strengthening agriculture, ensuring food security, and uplifting rural communities through inclusive and sustainable livelihood programs.
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