By Kenneth Marcos 
In the cool highlands of Baguio City, where livestock farming supports many rural families, efforts are underway to strengthen the region’s dairy industry. For farmers, improved facilities and stronger government support could mean better milk production and more stable income.
National Dairy Authority (NDA) Administrator Atty. Marcus Antonius T. Andaya recently visited the Baguio Animal Breeding and Research Center (BABRC) to assess ongoing operations and future plans for the facility. During the visit, he met with Department of Agriculture–Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) Regional Executive Director Atty. Jennilyn M. Dawayan to discuss strategies for improving dairy development in the region.
The meeting focused on aligning plans with Republic Act No. 12308, also known as the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act. The law aims to strengthen the country’s livestock and dairy sectors by improving productivity, ensuring food security, and increasing the competitiveness of local producers.
Officials discussed upgrading facilities and enhancing existing programs at the research center. These improvements are expected to support better breeding, animal health, and milk production, which are essential for building a stronger dairy industry in the Cordillera.
One key proposal raised during the meeting is the planned transfer of management of the dairy farm within the facility to the National Dairy Authority. The move is seen as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and ensure more focused implementation of dairy programs in the region.
The Cordillera region has strong potential for dairy production due to its cooler climate, which is suitable for raising dairy cattle. However, the industry still faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, high production costs, and low local milk output compared to demand.
Government agencies believe that strengthening partnerships and improving facilities can help address these gaps. By providing better support to farmers, including access to improved breeds and technical assistance, the region can increase its contribution to the country’s milk supply.
The NDA has been leading efforts to boost local dairy production nationwide, aiming to reduce dependence on imported milk. Programs include training for farmers, distribution of dairy animals, and development of processing facilities to improve product quality and market access.
Meanwhile, DA-CAR continues to support agricultural development in the region by promoting sustainable practices and providing services to farmers and cooperatives. Collaboration between agencies is seen as key to achieving long-term growth in the livestock sector.
The visit to the Baguio Animal Breeding and Research Center highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening the dairy industry, especially in regions with strong potential like the Cordillera.
As plans move forward, officials hope that improved facilities and stronger coordination will lead to increased milk production, better livelihoods for farmers, and greater food security for the country.
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