By Kenneth Marcos 
On a cool December morning in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, local farmers gathered with excitement as a new opportunity opened—one that promised steadier income and a stronger market for their carabao milk products. Smiles filled the venue as the community welcomed the newest Dairy Box outlet, a facility designed to support small dairy producers and expand local milk processing.
The Pamplona Dairy Box officially opened to the public on December 3. The facility is part of the Carabao-Based Business Improvement Network (CBIN), also known as the ALAB Karbawan Project, a nationwide effort to strengthen carabao production and create profitable agribusiness ventures for rural communities.
The project is funded through the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform. Former Senator Cynthia Villar, a long-time advocate of farmer-focused livelihood programs, emphasized that the initiative aims to lift rural incomes and reinforce the country’s food security. She said that improving the dairy value chain—especially in areas like Negros Oriental—helps farmers gain better access to markets and encourages more families to join dairy farming.
The new Dairy Box will serve as a processing and marketing hub where farmers can sell fresh milk, flavored drinks, and other carabao-based products. By centralizing production and retail, the facility gives small-scale raisers a stable buyer for their milk and allows local consumers to enjoy affordable, locally produced dairy goods.
Agriculture experts say the Philippines continues to import most of its dairy needs, with local production supplying only a small portion of national demand. Projects like the Dairy Box help reduce dependence on imported milk while creating jobs in rural communities. These hubs also offer training in product development, food safety, and financial management—skills that help farmers grow their small businesses sustainably.
Local officials in Pamplona expressed hope that the outlet will attract more interest in carabao farming and encourage young people to explore agricultural enterprises. With improved facilities, farmers can increase their production, ensure better product quality, and gain more stable earnings throughout the year.
As the doors of the new Dairy Box open, the community looks forward to a future where carabao raisers have stronger support, families have more livelihood options, and consumers enjoy fresh, homegrown dairy products.
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