By Kenneth Marcos 
From small backyard farms to large-scale producers, the country’s livestock, poultry, and dairy industries are set to receive a major upgrade. This comes after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed into law the Republic Act 12308, or the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act (AIDCA), on September 25, 2025.
Under this law, the government will invest ₱200 billion over 10 years to modernize and strengthen the livestock sector — a move expected to create jobs, improve local food supply, and reduce dependence on imports.
Better Facilities, More Income for Farmers
The AIDCA focuses on upgrading critical parts of the animal production industry. This includes building and modernizing slaughterhouses, dairy processing plants, cold storage facilities, and other farm infrastructure.
The law also aims to:
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Improve local meat, egg, and milk production
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Raise farmers’ incomes through better access to support services
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Develop vaccines and biotechnology to fight livestock diseases
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Strengthen research and programs under the National Dairy Authority (NDA) and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC)
These steps are designed to make the country’s food supply chain more resilient and competitive, especially during global price shocks or supply disruptions.
Jobs and Local Supply at the Core
Currently, the Philippines imports a large portion of its dairy and meat products. For example, over 99% of milk consumed in the country is imported. The law aims to change this by empowering local producers and expanding the domestic supply.
By investing in training, equipment, and access to markets, the government hopes to open more livelihood opportunities — particularly for rural farmers and livestock raisers.
The law also supports biotechnology and animal health programs to better prepare against outbreaks that can affect food supply, like African swine fever and avian flu.
A Step Toward Food Security
The AIDCA is part of the broader push for a “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” the government’s vision for a food-secure and resilient nation. Agriculture remains a key focus, as millions of Filipino families continue to struggle with high food prices and limited income opportunities in rural areas.
Industry groups and local farmers have welcomed the law, calling it a long-overdue support to a sector often left behind in terms of modernization.
With a stable and well-funded roadmap, the law hopes to lift the living standards of Filipino farmers, strengthen the local food industry, and give consumers better access to affordable and safe animal-based products.
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