By Kenneth Marcos 
Before sunrise in Alaminos City, Pangasinan, dairy farmers begin their daily routine, tending to their animals with hopes of earning enough to support their families. For many of them, access to quality livestock can mean the difference between small, uncertain income and a more stable livelihood. This year, that hope is growing stronger for one local cooperative.
The Alaminos City government has committed to provide 50 crossbred dairy carabaos to members of the Alaminos City Carabao Raisers Agriculture Cooperative (ACCRACO). The initiative aims to strengthen the local dairy industry and improve the income of small-scale farmers engaged in milk production.
The support was formalized during a courtesy meeting attended by First District of Pangasinan Representative Arthur Celeste, Alaminos City Mayor Bryan Celeste, and Vilma Gagni, center chief of the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Carabao Center based at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University. Members of ACCRACO also joined the meeting, which highlighted a shared commitment to develop sustainable dairy farming in the city and nearby areas.
Local officials said the distribution of dairy carabaos is part of broader efforts to empower farmers and cooperatives. By providing productive livestock, the program seeks to increase local milk supply, reduce dependence on imported dairy products, and create more livelihood opportunities in the countryside.
The Philippines continues to rely heavily on imported milk and dairy products, with local production meeting only a small portion of national demand. Government agencies have long promoted dairy buffalo raising as a practical solution, especially in rural areas. Carabaos are well-suited to local conditions and can produce milk while also serving other farm needs.
Crossbred dairy carabaos, in particular, are valued for higher milk yield compared to native breeds. With proper care, feeding, and veterinary support, farmers can earn daily income from milk sales while improving nutrition in their communities. Fresh carabao milk is often processed into products such as pastillas, yogurt, and cheese, providing additional income streams for cooperatives.
ACCRACO members welcomed the program, saying it will help strengthen their operations and encourage more farmers to join organized dairy production. Cooperative-based farming allows members to share resources, access training, and negotiate better prices for their products. It also helps ensure that small farmers are not left behind as the agriculture sector modernizes.
The DA–Philippine Carabao Center has been working closely with local governments to expand dairy buffalo programs nationwide. Aside from animal dispersal, the agency provides technical assistance, breeding support, and training on proper animal management and milk handling. These efforts aim to ensure that livestock distribution programs lead to long-term benefits, not short-term gains.
City officials stressed that the success of the initiative will depend on continued cooperation between farmers, the local government, and national agencies. They also emphasized the importance of responsible animal care and cooperative discipline to maximize the benefits of the program.
For dairy farmers in Alaminos City, the arrival of 50 new dairy carabaos represents more than added livestock. It signals renewed support for agriculture and a belief that with the right tools, farmers can build better livelihoods from their land and labor.
As the program moves forward, local leaders hope it will inspire similar initiatives across Pangasinan, helping strengthen food security, rural income, and the future of the country’s dairy industry.
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