The DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) underscored the importance of fostering collaboration and shared goals in achieving transformative success, particularly in championing the Carabao Development Program (CDP), as it celebrated its 31st anniversary across different island clusters.

Marking a first in the agency's history, the anniversary celebration took place in different island clusters to highlight the DA-PCC’s consortia tie-up with the National Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Network and its host universities.

The island cluster celebrations, themed “Excellence in Unity,” were hosted by the DA-PCC at Central Luzon State University (DA-PCC at CLSU) for the Luzon cluster on March 8, 2024, DA-PCC at Visayas State University (DA-PCC at VSU) for the Visayas on March 12, 2024, and DA-PCC at University of Southern Mindanao(DA-PCC at USM) for the Mindanao on March 14, 2024.

During the celebrations, DA-PCC Executive Director Dr. Liza Battad showcased the advancements made under the CDP through audio-visual presentations, highlighting industry milestones for each cluster. (WATCH HERE-Luzon: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/LTg86FjVDPeZ8jAT/?mibextid=CTbP7E

Visayas: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/FuNMXmfnoGYpPd6n/?mibextid=CTbP7E

Mindanao: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jNfEsmtcFTpfGieE/?mibextid=CTbP7E)

Dr. Battad took the opportunity to thank all stakeholders for their contributions to the growth and success of the carabao sector, noting the establishment of a robust carabao supply chain economy as a key outcome of these collective efforts.

Industry partners voiced their support for the DA-PCC's endeavors in advancing the livestock sector.

Dr. Edgar Orden, speaking at the Luzon cluster event, affirmed the DA-PCC's impact on the country’s carabao industry, mentioning its surpassing achievements over 31 years. An impact assessment by CLSU researchers highlighted that the DA-PCC's efforts had significantly advanced the livestock sector, including a notable increase in milk production and the genetic improvement of carabaos.

In the Visayas, Board Member Matt P. Palabrica emphasized the strong partnership between Iloilo Province and DA-PCC at West Visayas State University, endorsing resolutions to further the carabao industry's growth in line with the province's goals.

Similarly, in Mindanao, Board Member Jonathan Tabara conveyed Cotabato Province's commitment to the carabao industry, announcing funding for dairy buffalo procurement, which will aid the country's agricultural sector in achieving milk sufficiency and the enactment of the Enhanced Carabao Propagation and Promotion Ordinance to help DA-PCC in achieving carabao industry goals in the province.

The industry's pledge of support, signed by partners nationwide, underscored a shared dedication to promoting carabao products and encouraging agricultural engagement among the youth.

Additionally, a Memorandum of Commitment was signed between DA-PCC at VSU and the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program, alongside the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, which aims to promote science, technology, and innovation applications in Region 8 through research and development.

Recognition was given to DA-PCC's program implementation partners, alongside initiatives like the Dairy Herd Buildup project and the turnover of dairy buffaloes to cooperatives, which reflect the collective commitment to promoting the carabao industry.

Furthermore, a symbolic act of unity took place as leaders and staunch supporters of DA-PCC poured milk into a bottle, symbolizing their dedication to collaborative efforts and resource-sharing for present and future initiatives.

The event also featured an exhibition showcasing the diverse products derived from carabaos, including hide, meat, and dairy delicacies.