TUBOD, Lanao del Norte – March 12, 2025 – In a significant step toward strengthening the dairy industry and improving farmers’ livelihoods, the Philippine Carabao Center – Mindanao Livestock Production Complex (PCC-MLPC) of Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte, led the entrustment ceremony of dairy buffaloes and equipment under the Accelerating Livelihood and Assets Buildup (ALAB)-Karbawan Project. The event took place in Tubaran, Tubod, marking a milestone in local dairy development.
The ceremony saw the participation of key officials and stakeholders, including Tubod Mayor Jimmy Cabahug, PCC-MLPC Center Director Dr. Cecelio Velez, Carabao-based Business Improvement Network (CBIN) National Focal Estella Valiente, Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Fritzie Provido, and representatives from various agencies and organizations. Also in attendance was a representative of Senator Cynthia Villar, Edna Jangao, as well as local government and cooperative leaders.
The ALAB-Karbawan Project, funded by the office of Senator Cynthia Villar, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Agrarian Reform, is designed to promote carabao conservation, increase milk production, and provide farmers with sustainable livelihood opportunities. The initiative includes comprehensive support such as training, animal biologics, production tools, and other essentials needed to establish profitable dairy enterprises. As part of the program, 25 dairy buffaloes were entrusted to members of the Mindanao Cooperative Trade and Industries (MCTI) from the barangays of Tubaran, San Antonio, Patudan, and Bulod.
During the event, Mayor Jimmy Cabahug expressed gratitude for Tubod’s selection as the project’s pilot site, emphasizing its potential to improve the agricultural sector. PCC-MLPC Director Dr. Cecelio Velez encouraged farmers to take full advantage of the program, stressing that dedication and commitment could lead to significant improvements in their livelihoods.
MCTI Chairman Narciso Paitan became emotional while sharing his sentiments, highlighting his long-time dream of providing farmers with a stable daily income. He noted that despite being an agriculture graduate, this was his first opportunity to raise carabaos, as he had previously dedicated his time to educating farmers.
Representing the provincial government, Dr. Fritzie Provido underscored the significance of the program for Lanao del Norte’s agricultural development, describing it as a testament to the province’s potential in dairy production.
With Tubod serving as the launching point, PCC envisions expanding the ALAB-Karbawan Project to other barangays and municipalities. This expansion aims to create more opportunities for farmers, boost productivity, and further strengthen Lanao del Norte’s dairy and agricultural sectors.
