The Department of Agriculture (DA) has extended feed assistance to about 1,000 duck raisers in Pampanga, aiming to strengthen livestock farming and promote food security in the region.

Beneficiaries from the municipalities of Candaba, San Luis, San Simon, and Apalit received between 9 to 17 bags of duck feed, each weighing 50 kilograms. The aid package, valued between ₱15,000 to ₱28,000, was granted to registered duck raisers with at least 100 ducks and a maximum of 2,000.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of supporting small-scale duck raisers and cited Vietnam’s integrated rice-duck farming model as an example to boost both productivity and income. He said the DA aims to develop the initiative into a multi-year program and expand its reach nationwide.

In addition to feed support, the DA is providing free avian influenza testing and developing post-harvest facilities to help ensure sustainable growth in the duck farming industry.

As of 2024, Pampanga accounted for nearly 60 percent of Central Luzon’s 4.9 million duck population. The region continues to lead national production in both duck meat and eggs, contributing 27 percent and 56 percent, respectively. (PIA Region 3 – Pampanga)