Innovation, solid collaborations, and entrepreneurship, according to Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar, are what summarizes the DA-PCC’s significant contributions to the local livestock and dairy industries.

In his speech as the keynote speaker during the agency’s 29th anniversary celebration last March 21-25 at the PCC National Headquarters and Gene Pool in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Secretary Dar lauds the agency for manifesting grit and resilience amid the pandemic through its milestones showcased during the weeklong celebration.

Aptly bearing the theme, "Achieving Milestones through Grit and Resiliency," the DA-PCC showcased 10 carabao development milestones: further expansion of the carabao value-chain through the Carabao-based Business Improvement Network and the Coconut-Carabao Development Project; participation of dairy buffalo farmers in the national milk feeding program; commercialization of the Karabun technology and Dairy Box business modality; registration to IPO Philippines of PCC developed intellectual properties, i.e. Dairy Box, Kardeli, and Nyogurt; development of the iHealth and iFodder mobile apps; updating of the Dairy Buffalo Handbook; National GAHP Certification of DA-PCC at CSU’s Institutional Herd; appointment as National Livestock Cryobank; and sustained ISO certifications.

The DA Chief also challenged the DA-PCC to use its experience of 29 years to increase carabao’s milk and meat production as well as aggressively carry out product research and development in the country.

"Think big, aim higher,” he urged the DA-PCC with emphasis on the proper implementation of the agency’s research programs and application of results, as well as private sector investments. These, he said, will boost milk production in the country.

Dr. Ronnie Domingo, DA-PCC’s OIC-Executive Director, assured that the agency will continue to strengthen the implementation of the Carabao Industry Roadmap for 2020-2025, the implementation of the School-based Milk Feeding Program, and the operation of the Carabao-based Business Improvement Network and Coconut-Carabao Development projects.

On the other hand, Senator Cynthia Villar, Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform, virtually sent her warm wishes to the agency saying that she commends the agency for overcoming the many challenges brought about by the pandemic and the obstacles to fully realize its mandate. She said her office will continue to advocate and support the agency’s cause.

A lineup of activities that aimed to strengthen employee engagement were conducted during the weeklong celebration. These included the National Women’s Month celebration, mental health awareness and wellness, launching of the Knowledge Booth, Karwanan Night, and the employees’ appreciation and recognition.

It was during the latter that five of the agency’s Outstanding Employees for 2021 were recognized. They were: Benjamin John Basilio, Center Director of DA-PCC at USM as Outstanding Center Director; Dr. Thelma Saludes, Center Director of DA-PCC at UPLB as Outstanding Researcher; Dr. Edward Paraguison, Science Research Specialist of DA-PCC at CLSU as Outstanding Supervisor; Janice Cuaresma, CBED coordinator of DA-PCC at WVSU as Outstanding Development Officer; and Rolly Ardeño of DA-PCC at LCSF as Outstanding Support Staff.