July 4, 2025
 

Dairy farmers in Bukidnon, Philippines gear up for bigger markets

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the National Dairy Authority (NDA) recently turned over modern milk processing equipment to boost growing dairy industry in the province of Bukidnon and help local farmers tap into bigger markets.

 

In a ceremonial turnover at the local facility, DOST and NDA handed over key equipment to the Pangantucan Maramag Kalilangan Farmers Dairy Cooperative (PAMAKA-FDC). The package included a homogenizer, pasteurizer, cooling tank, freezers, and stainless steel tables—tools designed to modernize operations by improving milk texture, ensuring product safety, preserving freshness, extending shelf life, and maintaining hygienic processing conditions.

 

"With these tools, our farmers can boost production, meet quality standards, and break into larger markets. The intervention also opens up more livelihood opportunities and promotes community pride in homegrown dairy products," she said.

 

Tango-an said the project is under DOST's Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program to boost farmers' capacity to meet the growing demand for safe, locally produced dairy products, reduce reliance on imports, and uplift rural livelihoods through technology-based solutions.

 

She explained that with temperature-controlled storage and precise pasteurization, farmers can produce safer, longer-lasting milk products. This, she noted, increases consumer trust, opens access to institutional buyers like schools and hospitals, and allows the cooperative to develop premium items such as flavored milk, yogurt, and their signature fresh milk bars.

 

"We couldn't have done this on our own. We held on to hope. Now, our dream has finally come true," Belleza said.

 

NDA Assistant Department Manager Debbie De San Miguel, Municipal Agriculturist Teodoro Quirante III, DA-MARPO's Anna Grace S. Leyson, and PAMAKA FDC board members attended the turnover, reflecting strong coordination among national agencies, local government, and community cooperatives in advancing rural development.

 

The DOST noted that this initiative supports the government's Sustainable Development Goal 2, ending hunger, ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

 

"With upgraded facilities, Pangantucan's dairy farmers are now eyeing larger markets, supplying malls and dairy distributors in Valencia and Malaybalay cities, and joining government feeding programs for schools and daycare centers. These efforts will generate new income, create jobs, and strengthen Bukidnon's role as a key dairy producer in Mindanao. This milestone reflects a shared commitment by government, farmers, and partners to invest in rural progress, empowering communities with skills, tools, and market access to help smallholder farmers thrive and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability," Tango-an said.
 

-      Philippine Information Agency Region 10 (Bukidnon)