The Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Luzon has distributed over ₱23 million worth of livelihood assistance to various farmers’ cooperatives and associations across the region to boost livestock production and improve income opportunities.
The turnover ceremony was held at the DA compound in Barangay Maimpis, as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to modernize livestock practices and support rural communities under the national vision of a “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.”
DA National Livestock Program Deputy Director Noverlee Calub emphasized that the success of the livestock sector is not solely measured by technology or production, but by its impact on families and communities. “Ang pag-unlad ay hindi lang tungkol sa mga tao—sa mga pamilyang umaasa sa kabuhayan, sa mga magsasakang masipag mag-alaga, at sa mga pamayanang tumitibay dahil sa kanilang dedikasyon,” he said.
Among the beneficiaries were groups from Bataan, Zambales, and Pampanga, including the Nasingkong Kawayan Kiling-Batilao Integrated Farmers Association, Bataan Farmers Agriculture Cooperative, Zambales Competitive Farmers Association, San Esteban Agri Producers Association Inc., Lacmit Farmers Agriculture Cooperative, Talimundok Farmers Association, Agustinian Farmers Association of Candaba Inc., and San Roque Farmers and Livestock Raisers Association Inc.
The assistance included animal hauling trucks, goat and cattle housing units, biomass shedders, hammer mills, and shallow tube wells, all aimed at enhancing productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
DA Central Luzon Regional Executive Director Eduardo Lapuz Jr. said the agency is now able to provide more comprehensive support than in previous years. He urged beneficiaries to take care of the equipment and maximize its long-term use. He also noted that the animal hauling trucks were designed for dual use, allowing transport of both livestock and farm produce such as rice and vegetables.
DA 3 Regional Technical Director for Operations and Extension Arthur Dayrit commended local livestock raisers for their role in making Central Luzon a leading livestock-producing region. “Ito ay bunga ng inyong katatagan at sipag. Ang Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka ay patuloy na magiging katuwang ninyo tungo sa tuluy-tuloy na paglago ng inyong kabuhayan,” he said.
Dayrit added that the DA remains committed to building a resilient and competitive livestock industry through capacity building, infrastructure support, and sustainable policy development in collaboration with local governments and stakeholders.
