19 March 2024 | The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and National Dairy Authority (NDA) formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Agreement.

In line with the Food for All program of PBBM, and to increase the country’s milk sufficiency, the NDA partnered with NCIP to facilitate support from Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) by utilizing Ancestral Domain areas as dairy production farms.

Aside from establishing dairy production farms, the agreement will bring forth livelihood benefits for the ICCs/IPs as they will be considered suppliers of forage materials for the production farms. Also, the Project shall source its manpower requirements from qualified members of the ICCs/IPs generating employment opportunities. Subsequently, at least 10% percent of the annual animal production of the farms will be dispersed to the IP communities allowing them to practice backyard dairy farming.

Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las and Executive Director Mervyn H. Espadero signed the memorandum of agreement for and on behalf of the NCIP. Likewise, representing the NDA is the OIC-Department Manager for Operations, Ms. Rowena E. Bautista, and OIC-Department Manager for Admin and Finance, Ms. Carlota H. Cruz.

The collaboration between NCIP and NDA is a testament to the shared commitment to achieve a sustainable, equitable, and inclusive future. Further, the signing event also served as a tribute to commemorate the invaluable contributions of former NDA Administrator, the late Dr. Gabriel L. Lagamayo.

Capping the event is the ceremonial milk toast and exchange of tokens of appreciation between NCIP and NDA.

Witnessing the important milestone are the personnel of the NCIP Office on Socio-Economic Services and Special Concerns (OSESSC) led by Dir. Reynaldo A. Dingal and Division Chief Glenda Alcantara Pua. Also present to witness the momentous event are the area managers and key officers of NDA.

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