CARMEN, Cotabato Province — In a powerful display of resilience, progress, and unwavering commitment to agricultural development, the National Dairy Authority (NDA) marked its 31st anniversary with a milestone celebration that underscored not only its legacy but its forward-looking vision for the Philippine dairy industry.
Held on March 31, 2026, at the Aroman Dairy Stock Farm in Barangay Aroman, the culmination event brought together key stakeholders, government officials, farmers, and industry partners in a unified call to strengthen dairy production through innovation and collaboration.
At the heart of the celebration was the formal blessing and inauguration of the Feed Center and Technology Center—two critical facilities designed to transform dairy farming in the region. These centers are expected to significantly improve the production of high-quality feeds, enhance milk yield, and open new livelihood opportunities for local dairy farmers. More than infrastructure, they represent a strategic investment in sustainability and efficiency in an industry long challenged by limited local production and heavy reliance on imports.
The ceremony was graced by John B. Pascual, Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XII, whose presence highlighted the strong institutional backing for dairy development in Region XII. Pascual reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening food security through enhanced dairy programs and partnerships.
Anchored on the theme “Serbisyong may Sustansya,” the anniversary celebration paid tribute to the backbone of the industry—the farmers and practitioners whose dedication continues to drive growth. Outstanding dairy farmers, cooperatives, dairy processors, artificial insemination technicians, partner agencies, and local government units were recognized for their invaluable contributions. Their stories reflect not only hard work but a shared vision of a self-sustaining dairy sector capable of uplifting rural communities.
Beyond recognition, the event also served as a platform for knowledge sharing and innovation. A technology demonstration on modern feed processing—covering chopping, mixing, and baling—showcased practical solutions that can increase productivity and reduce costs for farmers. These innovations, when scaled, have the potential to revolutionize local dairy operations and improve competitiveness in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
Messages of solidarity from partner agencies further reinforced a growing network of collaboration, seen as vital to overcoming systemic challenges in the dairy sector. From production gaps to supply chain inefficiencies, the path forward requires not only technology but strong partnerships and sustained support.
As the NDA enters its fourth decade, the message from Aroman is clear: the future of Philippine dairy lies in empowering farmers, embracing innovation, and building resilient systems that ensure food security and economic opportunity.
More than a celebration, the 31st anniversary stands as a renewed commitment—one that recognizes the long journey ahead, but also the immense potential of a sector rooted in the strength of its people.