By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside a packed hotel hall in Quezon City, dairy farmers, processors, and food manufacturers listened closely as government officials laid out changes that could shape the future of the country’s dairy industry. For many stakeholders, the discussion was timely. The sector is growing, but it also faces rising costs, strict safety standards, and the need for clearer rules.
On January 30, 2026, the National Dairy Authority held its first Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on its expanded functions at The Hive Hotel in Quezon City. The forum was conducted in partnership with the Bureau of Animal Industry and the Food and Drug Administration. Around 60 organizations attended, including local and multinational companies, dairy cooperatives, and business chambers involved in dairy, food manufacturing, and processing.
To ensure wider participation, the forum was also streamed via Zoom, allowing stakeholders from different regions of the country to join the discussions.
The consultation was held following the passage of the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act, or Republic Act No. 12308. The law expanded the mandate of the NDA and strengthened its role as the lead government agency overseeing and regulating local milk production and related dairy activities.
Under the expanded mandate, certain regulatory functions related to locally produced milk will transition from the FDA to the NDA, in coordination with the BAI. The forum aimed to guide stakeholders through this shift and clarify how the changes will affect dairy farmers, processors, and manufacturers.
Officials from the NDA, BAI, and FDA delivered key messages during the event. They explained the intent of the law, shared legal and technical updates, and outlined how the agencies will work together during the transition period. A panel discussion and open forum followed, giving participants the chance to raise concerns and seek clarification.
According to the NDA, the expanded functions are designed to support the development and competitiveness of the local dairy industry. By placing regulation of locally produced milk under an agency focused on dairy development, the government hopes to create policies that are both practical and responsive to industry needs.
The NDA emphasized that food safety remains a priority. Standards and inspections will continue, but with closer coordination among agencies to avoid duplication and confusion. The BAI will remain involved, particularly in animal health and production concerns, while the FDA will continue to regulate processed food products beyond the scope of local milk production.
Stakeholders welcomed the opportunity to be consulted early. Some participants raised questions about compliance requirements, timelines for the transition, and support for small dairy farmers and cooperatives. Others stressed the need for clear guidelines to ensure smooth operations and protect consumer safety.
The NDA acknowledged these concerns and said they will be considered as implementing rules and procedures are refined. Officials also stressed that the forum marked the start of an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time activity.
This consultative forum is the first in a series of discussions planned by the NDA as it rolls out the provisions of RA 12308. The agency said more engagements will follow to ensure that policies are informed by industry realities and that stakeholders are prepared for the changes ahead.
As the country works to strengthen its dairy sector, the success of the expanded mandate will depend on cooperation among government agencies and the private sector. Clear rules, consistent enforcement, and open communication will be key to building a more competitive and sustainable local dairy industry.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News