The DA-Philippine Carabao Center (DA-PCC) continues to gain national recognition for its proactive efforts in building climate resilience within the livestock sector.

During the Action Group of Experts (AGE) Meeting on "Integrating Climate Change and Antimicrobial Resistance in Livestock and Aquaculture: Mapping Interventions, Practices, and Policies in Low- and Middle-Income Countries," held at Bayleaf Hotel, Intramuros, Manila, DA-PCC highlighted its innovations alongside international organizations such as the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS) and the Ateneo Center for Research and Innovation (ACRI).

At the core of the DA-PCC's climate resilience initiatives is a research project titled “Development of Climate-Smart Interventions to Enhance Water Buffalo Reproduction in Heat-Stressed Conditions in the Philippines," led by Dr. Excel Rio S. Maylem and her research team, which includes Noel Ablaza II, Annejelyn Ruiz, Yujiner Dela Cruz, Roseline Tadeo, Mark Andrei Macapagal, Joseph Oliver Lofranco, Carlito Dela Cruz, Edwin Atabay, Eufrocina Atabay, and Ester Flores.

The research determines how thermotolerance genes could possibly affect their productivity. Animals with these genes are likely to withstand the harmful effects of heat stress and the development of a reproductive intervention suitable for summer conditions aimed to increase pregnancies and calf and milk production even during heat stressed condition.

Complementing this is the agency’s National Gene Pool and Cryobank facility, a modern repository that protects essential genetic resources of the Philippine carabao. This facility preserves carabao breeds that possess traits suited for climate adaptation, ensuring the genetic diversity necessary to cope with challenges such as rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and emerging livestock diseases. Through its advanced genebanking efforts, the DA-PCC is establishing itself as a leading agency in climate-resilient livestock management.

Furthermore, the DA-PCC's dedication to climate resilience is deeply embedded within the carabao entrepreneurship initiatives it fosters. Recognizing that the livelihoods of many Filipino farmers depend on carabao-based enterprises like dairy and meat production, the DA-PCC integrates climate-smart practices into its extension services and training programs. These initiatives empower carabao entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools necessary to adopt sustainable farming methods, optimize resource utilization, and build resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding climate-related shocks.

By linking its advanced technological capabilities in genetic preservation with on-the-ground support for carabao-based livelihoods, the DA-PCC is demonstrating a holistic approach to climate resilience. This dual approach not only secures the genetic future of the Philippine carabao but also strengthens the adaptive capacities of farming communities nationwide.

DA-PCC Executive Director Dr. Liza G. Battad led the PCC delegation during the AGE Meeting. Joining her were Drs. Lawrence Belotindo, Lilian P. Villamor, Alexis Gabriel Tubalinal, Ms. Aivhee Joy Escuadro-Cuanang, and Mr. Alvin V. David, who served as industry representatives, reactors, and resource speakers.