March 12, 2020

Philippine dairy agency ordered to double milk output

According to Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar, the National Dairy Authority (NDA) has been set a 100% production growth target for liquid milk within five to eight years.

The NDA and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) have been given marching orders to boost their industry's output.

At the 25th anniversary of the NDA on March 9, Dar said the dairy industry currently meets 1.2% of domestic milk requirements, including powdered milk.

"The present level of milk production in the Philippines is small," Dar said. He stated that milk production requires support from the government if it is to meet domestic demand.

He said the NDA should reconsider its strategy for boosting dairy production. "The NDA, and other related agencies should elevate their game," Dar said.

Dar acknowledged that not all provinces are suitable for enhanced dairy production, urging the dairy authorities to be "selective."

The NDA has an annual budget of PHP1.5 billion to support dairy production.