Laoac, Pangasinan – The Laoac Dairy Farm, operated by the provincial government in Barangay Maraboc, Laoac town, has achieved a significant milestone by earning over PHP2 million in 2023 from the sale of raw and pasteurized milk products.
According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke in a phone interview on Monday, this revenue is in addition to the farm's successful breeding program, which yielded 91 calves, far exceeding the year's target of 20. Rovillos highlighted that most of the sales came from walk-in customers. The farm, on a daily basis, produces at least 7.5 liters of milk per cow from its 40 cows and 2 liters per carabao from its 32 carabaos.
The breeding strategy of the farm focuses on enhancing the bloodline of the livestock. Rovillos explained, "The offsprings will be replacement stocks. Existing carabaos have 50 percent native bloodlines, and the other 50 percent have buffalo bloodlines. The aim is to upgrade their bloodline so that the offspring will have up to 75 percent Murrah Buffalo bloodline, known for higher milk production."
The provincial government purchased the carabaos from various suppliers, while the cows, already pregnant upon arrival, were loaned by the National Dairy Administration (NDA) in September 2023. The farm not only contributes to the local economy but also provides employment to Rovillos and 28 other employees.
Further developments at the farm include the construction of a buffalo barn in Barangay Botigue, expected to be completed within the year. Governor Ramon Guico III mentioned in a previous interview that the NDA has been instrumental in providing technical support to the dairy farm.
The farm's ambitions extend beyond milk production. The provincial government is exploring the production of dairy-derived products like ice cream, yogurt, and cheese. Additionally, there is a proposal to transform the farm into a training school for workers, potentially creating opportunities for them to work abroad.