By Kenneth Marcos 
In a small community in Pagbilao, Quezon, children line up during school feeding programs—some arriving with empty stomachs, others relying on a cup of warm milk to get through the day. This October, one event aims to change that, even just for a day.
The National Dairy Authority (NDA) – Southern Luzon Department is inviting the public to join the special activity “Adopt a Cow & Feed a Child for a Day” in celebration of World Food Day 2025, happening on October 16 in Pagbilao, Quezon.
Feeding Children, Supporting Farmers
The main goal of this activity is to highlight the importance of milk in child nutrition, especially among undernourished children, while also supporting local dairy farmers.
Through the “Adopt a Cow” campaign, participants will help provide fresh, locally produced milk to children in public schools and communities. At the same time, the event serves as a platform to raise awareness on the value of the dairy industry in building a healthy and food-secure nation.
This year’s World Food Day celebration carries a strong message: No Filipino child should go hungry—and even small acts of support can make a big difference.
How to Join
Interested individuals, groups, or organizations can register from September 15 to 19, 2025. Details on how to sign up and how to adopt a cow for the event will be released by the NDA in the coming days.
The activity is open to everyone—from local businesses and cooperatives to families and individuals—who want to make an impact through dairy nutrition and advocacy.
Participants will also have the opportunity to visit local farms, interact with dairy farmers, and learn more about milk production, deepening their appreciation for agriculture and local food systems.
A Boost for Local Dairy
According to NDA, the Philippines produces only a small portion of its milk needs, relying heavily on imports. Events like this not only help address hunger and malnutrition but also promote the local dairy sector and encourage investment in homegrown agriculture.
As part of the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to build a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, this campaign aligns with ongoing programs to uplift rural communities, ensure proper child nutrition, and strengthen food supply chains.
World Food Day is celebrated every October 16 around the globe, led by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This year, the Philippines continues to take part by bringing local stories and grassroots efforts to the forefront.
A Shared Responsibility
As the October 16 celebration approaches, the NDA Southern Luzon Department calls on everyone to be part of the solution—whether by adopting a cow, sponsoring milk for a child, or spreading awareness about the role of good nutrition and sustainable farming.
After all, every child deserves access to healthy food, and every Filipino farmer deserves the support to keep producing it.
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