By Kenneth Marcos 
In a quiet conference room in Quezon City, farmers’ groups, researchers, and government officials gathered with one goal in mind: to find ways to strengthen the Philippine dairy industry. For many Filipino families, milk remains a daily need that is still largely met by imports. The discussion focused on how science, technology, and better policies can change that.
The Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) held a consultation on January 28, 2026, to present the findings of a joint evaluative study with the Department of Science and Technology and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD). The study looks at ways to transform the local dairy industry into a more productive and competitive sector.
Titled “Transforming the Philippine Dairy Industry through Science, Technology and Policy,” the study aims to develop a viable dairy cattle enterprise model that is grounded in research and innovation. It also proposes policy reforms to help local dairy farmers improve production, reduce costs, and compete with imported milk and dairy products.
The consultation served as a platform for gathering feedback from stakeholders to further refine the study. PCAF said the activity reflects its commitment to participatory and collaborative governance, ensuring that policies and programs are shaped by the voices of those directly involved in agriculture and fisheries.
Floreliz Avellana, chief of PCAF’s Planning, Monitoring and Knowledge Management Division, opened the discussion. She thanked DOST-PCAARRD for its continued partnership with PCAF, particularly in implementing the Intensified Community-Based Dairy Enterprise Development project. The project is funded under the United States Public Law 480 program and focuses on strengthening dairy farming at the community level.
DOST-PCAARRD Director Ernesto Brown presented an overview of the study, including its key findings and recommendations. He highlighted the need for science-based approaches to address long-standing issues in the dairy sector, such as low milk yield per animal, high production costs, limited access to quality feeds, and gaps in technology adoption.
The Philippines continues to rely heavily on imported milk, with local production meeting only a small portion of national demand. This dependence exposes the country to global price swings and supply disruptions. Stakeholders at the consultation said improving local dairy production is not only an economic issue but also a food security concern.
During the discussion, participants noted that smallholder dairy farmers face challenges in accessing financing, veterinary services, and modern equipment. Many also lack stable markets for their milk. The study recommends stronger support systems, including better extension services, research-driven breeding programs, and clearer policies that encourage private sector investment.
PCAF and DOST-PCAARRD agreed on the next steps for the evaluative study. DOST-PCAARRD will provide PCAF with a copy of the draft terminal report for public dissemination, while ensuring the privacy of the model farms involved. PCAF will then forward the study to its Consultative Bodies for review, comments, and policy recommendations.
Both agencies also committed to holding another stakeholder consultation that will involve members of PCAF’s Consultative Bodies. This is expected to further align the study’s recommendations with the needs of farmers, cooperatives, and industry players.
The evaluative study was commissioned by PCAF’s Project Development Section under the Planning, Monitoring and Knowledge Management Division. It was implemented by DOST-PCAARRD and covered the period from 2024 to 2025.
As the government pushes for a more resilient and self-reliant agriculture sector, officials said the dairy industry has strong potential if supported by sound science and responsive policies. Strengthening local milk production could help create jobs, raise farm incomes, and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
The consultation ended with a shared message: lasting reforms in the dairy sector require cooperation among government, researchers, and farmers. With the right support, local dairy farming can play a bigger role in building a more secure and inclusive food system for the Philippines.
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