DA-Philippine Carabao Center at DMMMSU

12/08/2026

07/08/2026

Magandang araw, ka-Kakalabawan!

Isang paanyaya sa pagsali sa aming 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐖𝐄𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐑 series na pinamagatang "Establishing a Retort Processing Facility for Sterilized Carabao Milk Production: Technology, Operations, and Quality Assurance" Ito ay gaganapin sa Miyerkules, August 12, 2026 10AM.

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07/08/2026

30 Bayambang co-op members complete buffalo production training

Thirty members of the Managos Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (MFAC) completed the Social Preparation and Buffalo Production and Management Training conducted by the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) in partnership with the Local Government Unit and Municipal Agriculturist Office of Bayambang on July 21-23 at the Agricultural Learning Site in Managos, Bayambang, Pangasinan.

The three-day training equipped participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to venture into carabao-based farming and strengthen the cooperative's plans to engage in sustainable livestock production.

The training featured lectures, practical demonstrations, and a farm visit that introduced participants to proper buffalo production and management practices.

Mark Espino, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Cooperative Development Council (MCDC), emphasized the importance of knowledge, skills, and commitment in ensuring the success of future carapreneurs.

“Dapat ‘pag binigay ‘yong kalabaw, tratuhin na pagmamay-ari talaga,” Espino said.

Adding a dose of humor, Espino warned participants that neglected animals have a way of “getting even”—sometimes with a kick—drawing laughter while emphasizing responsible animal care. He likewise commended the members for taking time away from their household responsibilities to attend the training.

As part of the program, participants visited Mateo Kiddos Farm in Asingan, Pangasinan, where they observed firsthand buffalo management and dairy production practices. They also took part in hands-on activities on silage making, hand milking, and the preparation of urea-molasses mineral blocks.

MFAC Chairperson Juan Paulo Ellorin underscored the value of continuous learning as the cooperative prepares to venture into carabao-based farming.

“Training is essential in any kind of enterprise. It equips farmers with the right practices and skills, and helps reduce risks that could lead to losses,” he said.

Participants also gained insights from the experience of Bantog Samahan sa Nayon Multipurpose Cooperative (BSNMPC). Abraham Tabian, the cooperative's accountant, reminded members that setbacks are inevitable in any business and shared that BSNMPC took nearly two decades to recover from its own financial challenges, emphasizing that patience and persistence are essential to long-term success.

Meanwhile, Rolly C. Mateo, BSNMPC chairperson, encouraged the participants to remain steadfast as they begin their own journey in carabao enterprise. He recalled the challenges their cooperative overcame and shared that support from DA-PCC, particularly through the provision of dairy buffaloes, helped create a stable source of income for their members.

Established in September 2023, MFAC was organized to improve farmers' livelihoods and promote sustainable agriculture in Bayambang. According to Ellorin, the cooperative's interest in carabao production grew after learning about the opportunities offered by the Carabao Development Program and recognizing the multiple income streams that carabaos provide—from milk and meat to draft power and manure. [By: Jessabel V. Galiste]

07/08/2026

DA-PCC at DMMMSU entrusts 10 crossbred buffaloes to ARBO members in Pangasinan

The DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU) entrusted 10 crossbred buffaloes to three members of the Asenso Pinmilapil Farmers Association Inc., an Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (ARBO), in Sison, Pangasinan, on July 17 as part of its efforts to improve the income and livelihood of agrarian reform beneficiaries.

The livelihood assistance was implemented in partnership with the Department of Agrarian Reform-Pangasinan (DAR-Pangasinan), reflecting the agencies' shared commitment to strengthening carabao-based enterprises, increasing local milk production, and improving the quality of life of agrarian reform beneficiaries.

DAR-Pangasinan Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Charlotte Lasmarias encouraged the recipients to maximize the opportunities offered by carabao production, stressing that farming can become a profitable enterprise when managed properly.

“Mayroong pera at malaki ang asenso sa farming kapag alam natin kung ano ang gagawin natin… Hindi namin kayo bibitawan, nandito lang kami kung ano man ang kailangan niyong tulong,” she said.

To support the beneficiaries in raising their animals, DAR-Pangasinan also provided the association with 20 bags of feed supplements and 40 bags of corn silage to help meet the nutritional requirements of the entrusted buffaloes.

DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Chief Dr. Vilma C. Gagni emphasized that the success of the livelihood project depends largely on the recipients' commitment to proper animal management.

“Nasa inyong kamay kung aasenso at kikita kayo. Kapag hindi pakakainin ang alagang kalabaw, papayat siya. Kapag payat, hindi ito mabubuntis. Kapag hindi mabubuntis, hindi ito manganagak. Kapag hindi manganganak, walang gatas at kapag walang gatas, wala ring kita,” she emphasized.

DA-PCC at DMMMSU veterinarian Dr. Mac Erwin Perez oriented the recipients on proper feeding management, including the recommended feeding ratio of silage and feed supplements, and provided guidance on the proper care and management of the animals after turnover.

One of the recipients, Cesar Rocapor, expressed his gratitude to DA-PCC at DMMMSU and DAR-Pangasinan for the assistance. He shared that his commitment to carabao production inspired him to sell his other livestock to improve the housing facilities for his buffaloes, believing that the livelihood opportunity would provide long-term benefits for his family.

The buffalo entrustment is expected to increase local milk production while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for agrarian reform beneficiaries. It also supports the government's milk-feeding initiatives by strengthening the local milk supply chain and contributing to improved nutrition among schoolchildren and communities. [By: Maximo Peralta Jr.]

07/08/2026

DA-PCC at DMMMSU recognizes top-performing livestock soldiers during the AI Tech Forum

In an effort to recognize the DA-PCC at DMMMSU’s AI technicians' continued advancement of the livestock industry through the Genetic Improvement Program (GIP) initiatives within the center's service area, the DA-PCC at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University awarded the best-performing AI technicians during the 1st Semester AI Technician's Forum at J&V Hotel and Resort, San Fernando City, La Union on July 14, 2026.

This is part of the center's initiative to boost the morale of village-based AI technicians, who are one of the Center's most important workforces and contributors to GIP success.

The Best Performing Technicians were chosen based on their contributions to the number of calf drops (CDs) reported, AI efficiency, and AI services. The awardees in each category are as follows:

Highest Number of CDs Reported
1. Jessie Aromin - 70 CD
2. Davis Pascua - 39 CD
3. Josue Abando - 30 CD

Highest AI Efficiency
1.5 Jessie Aromin - 29%
1.5 Davis Pascua - 29%
3. Leonardo Calletong - 24%

Highest Number of AI Services
1. Jessie Aromin - 203 AI
2. Josue Abando - 191 AI
3. Ricar Dulay - 190 AI

Furthermore, special awards for top-performing PCC AI technicians include the following:
Highest Number of CDs Reported: Ken Carbonell - 46 CDs
Highest AI Efficiency: Ken Carbonell - 31%
Highest Number of AI Services: John John Resma - 246 AI

During the forum, DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Chief Vilma C. Gagni emphasized the importance of AI technicians in the livestock industry, calling them the backbone of a successful carabao livelihood.

“Kayo ang tinatawag na “backbone” ng ating livestock modernization. Sa bawat pagtawid ninyo sa mga ilog, paglakad sa malalayong komunidad, at pagbisista sa mga liblib na sakahan, hindi lang kayo nagpaparami ng kalabaw, pinapagpagaan at inaangat ninyo ang kabuhayan ng mga pamilyang Pilipino,” Gagni explained.

Reynaldo D. Paneda, the Center's GIP Coordinator, emphasized that the Center's primary focus is on GIP implementation, specifically the Carabao Upgrading Program and Calf Drop Monitoring, in order to meet the Center's overall goal for the year. He also reiterated a stricter enforcement of the "no report, no AI supplies" policy to remind technicians to submit their reports.

The Provincial AI Coordinators from La Union and Pangasinan, as well as the Regional AI Coordinator, presented updates on the AI schedules and accomplishments province- and region-wide.

Additionally, Paneda stated that this forum has strengthened the partnership between implementing agencies for AI initiatives. The Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office 1 (DA-RFO1) Livestock Program, DA-PCC's partner in improving carabao, cattle, and dairy herds through artificial insemination, has provided AI equipment such as straw sheaths, AI gloves, LN2, vitamins, dewormers, lutalyse hormone, and raincoats to help with GIP implementation in La Union and Pangasinan.

The AI Technician's Forum has not only served as a forum for discussing GIP concerns, but it has also helped to foster camaraderie among technicians and strengthen collaborations between local and provincial government units and DA-FRO1. #

30/07/2026

27/07/2026

KalaBoy and KalaGirl join Nutrition Month kick-off in Alaminos City

As a symbol of DA-PCC’s steadfast support, KalaBoy and KalaGirl made special appearances that underscored the agency’s commitment to nutrition advocacy and community engagement during the Joint Regional and City Launching of the 52nd National Nutrition Month at the Don Leopoldo Sison Convention Center on July 7, 2026.

The event, hosted by LGU-Alaminos City together with the Gawad Parangal sa Nutrisyon ng Alaminos, anchored on the national theme this year, “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan,” kicked off a month-long advocacy campaign highlighting the important connection between a healthy populace and a protected environment.

Through a strategic partnership between the Local Government Unit and the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) at DMMMSU, participants received fresh milk products to emphasize the value of locally sourced, nutrient-dense food. DA-PCC at DMMMSU staff led a milk toasting ceremony during the event, symbolizing unity in addressing malnutrition and reaffirming the joint commitment of government, community, and agriculture sectors to a healthier, and more sustainable future.

City Mayor Bryan Celeste pointed to nutrition as a vital investment in the city’s youth that proper nourishment gives the next generation the strength and opportunity to chase their dreams.

Other key government agencies echoed this comprehensive vision.

Department of Health CHD-1 representative, Lo**ta Calaguas, stressed that personal wellness and environmental care stem from the same daily choices, such as buying local produce and minimizing waste.

Ms Doris Joy Garcia, representative of Fidel L. Libao of the Department of Agriculture RFO 1, also emphasized that the war on malnutrition starts at the source and urged for sustainable agricultural and aquatic practices to make sure that food is safe, nutritious, and affordable.

The event ended with a collective call to action to all sectors, calling on parents, educators, local authorities and food producers to commit to nutrition as a collective civic duty. The leadership of Alaminos City in this regional initiative further affirms its role in spearheading a bigger movement for a healthier, greener and more sustainable future for all Filipino families. [By: Jessabel V. Galiste]

17/07/2026

LGU Mapandan, DA-PCC at DMMMSU discuss livestock and dairy initiatives

The Local Government Unit of Mapandan, headed by Mayor Karl Christiran Vega, has been actively exploring ways to fortify its agricultural sector. The LGU reached out to the DA-Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) at DMMMSU for guidance after benchmarking successful livestock programs in Balungao and Asingan. This resulted in a courtesy meeting last July 10, 2026 in Mapandan, Pangasinan, with DA-PCC at DMMMSU to discuss how similar initiatives could be adopted in the municipality.

Mayor Vega highlighted the municipality’s efforts in implementing livestock programs that would benefit local farmers.

“Malaking tulong ang programa upang makalikha ng hanapbuhay para sa mga residente,” he remarked.

Mapandan, an agricultural town, is known for its corn and rice production but faces the problem of underutilized farmlands. Mayor Vega said the LGU intends to consolidate unused lands, mostly owned by residents living overseas, to create an agreement between landowners and the LGU. The LGU would temporarily lease these lands for the production of forage for carabaos.

The discussions emphasized that carabaos are not only important for farm work but also important sources of milk, meat and hide that can be used for household needs and local enterprises.

“The milk feeding program is one of the flagship programs of the agency,” stressed DA-PCC at DMMMSU Center Chief Vilma C. Gagni.

She urged the LGUs to work with the Department of Education to widen the reach of the fresh carabao’s milk to more schoolchildren.

“Bagamat wala pang malaking populasyon ng kalabaw sa Mapandan, mahalaga ang suporta ng LGU sa mga magsasakang nais pumasok sa naturang industriya,” she said, stressing the role of local government in nurturing the dairy sector.

The meeting concluded with the setting up of future initiatives, including conducting milk feeding programs in the Region. The efforts are expected to harmonize livestock development with child nutrition, and also support farmers through expanded opportunities in dairy, meat and hide production. [By: Jessabel V. Galiste]

17/07/2026

WE ARE HIRING❗️
Join our team! The Department of Agriculture – Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) is now accepting applications for the following Contract of Service (COS) positions:
🔹VETERINARIAN
🔹ACCOUNTANT
📍 Place of Assignment: DA-PCC at DMMMSU, Baroro, Bacnotan, La Union
📄 Employment Type: Contract of Service (COS)
Qualified and interested applicants are encouraged to submit their application documents to the DA-PCC at DMMMSU office or through [email protected]
Be part of our mission in advancing research, development, and innovation in the livestock and dairy sector.
📅 Deadline : JULY 31, 5:00 pm
**Late and incomplete documents will not be entertained.**

14/07/2026

DepEd, DA-PCC at DMMMSU, LGU Bacnotan lead Region 1 launch of School-Based Feeding Program

The Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bacnotan and the DA-Philippine Carabao Center at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DA-PCC at DMMMSU), implemented the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) for School Year 2026–2027 at Bacnotan Central School, reinforcing efforts to improve child nutrition and address food insecurity in Region I.

Carrying the theme "Creating a Future Where No Child Goes Hungry," the regional kick-off gathered Schools Division Superintendents and Assistant Schools Division Superintendents from across Region I, along with academic and community leaders, to strengthen collaboration in combating malnutrition among schoolchildren.

Mayor Divina C. Fontanilla reaffirmed the LGU’s commitment to the program, emphasizing its role in building healthier and more resilient communities.

“Ensuring every learner has access to nutritious meals means giving every child an equal opportunity to succeed. Every well-fed child is a child ready to learn, and every child who learns can be considered the hope of our nation,” the mayor said.

Representing DA-PCC at DMMMSU, Maximo A. Peralta Jr. underscored the nutritional value of carabao milk and milk-based products as a vital component of the feeding program.

“We should not see the provision of meals to malnourished children as a burden. Rather, it is an investment in shaping their future,” he emphasized.

Peralta added that incorporating locally produced milk into the program not only improves the nutritional quality of meals but also strengthens food security and creates greater opportunities for local dairy farmers.

Dr. Estela Leon-Cariño, regional director of DepEd Region I, commended DA-PCC for successfully expanding its pasteurized milk production in support of the SBFP. She also reaffirmed DepEd Region I’s commitment to sustaining and expanding the milk feeding initiative as a key strategy for improving child nutrition and promoting healthier communities.

Meanwhile, John Philip F. Gabriel, Bacnotan municipal nutrition officer, presented encouraging data on the municipality’s nutrition gains, reporting that wasting prevalence among schoolchildren dropped from 14% in 2024 to 7.2% in 2025.

The improvement highlights the positive impact of sustained feeding interventions and strengthened collaboration among national agencies and local stakeholders. [By: Jessabel Galiste]