The National Dairy Authority (NDA) has expressed optimism that the Philippines will achieve a 2 percent self-sufficiency in milk production by 2025. This goal is supported by the scheduled completion of stock farms and the importation of dairy cows, according to NDA administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya.
In a briefing on Friday, Andaya revealed data showing the country achieving 1.64 percent self-sufficiency as of June 2024. With local milk demand soaring to 1.9 billion liters at the end of 2023, the NDA is keen on boosting production to meet this demand.
“We’re very optimistic that our 2 percent target for 2025 is achievable,” Andaya stated, noting that the new stock farms will be erected in strategic locations at Tinio, Nueva Ecija; Ubay, Bohol; Malaybalay, Bukidnon; Carmen, Cotabato; and Prosperidad, Agusan Del Sur. Plans for an additional farm in Roxas, Palawan are also underway, aimed at balancing farm distribution in the region.
The NDA plans to import at least 600 dairy cows from Australia to enhance local milk production. Procurement has already begun, with deliveries expected by July 2025. These new additions are expected to produce milk within the same year.
Andaya explained the state of dairy cattle in the Philippines: “We have around 79,000 dairy cattle, but not all are milking. Currently, only 16,000 are in the milking line.”
The average milk yield per cow stands at 10 liters per day, indicating significant room for growth.
To support these initiatives, the NDA has secured a budget of P537 million for 2025, slightly up from P515 million in 2024. This may be augmented by contributions from local government units.
The NDA is implementing a comprehensive five-step plan of increasing herd number, milk yield, and public awareness while minimizing farm risks. Andaya emphasized the importance of proper feeding, nutrition, and cow comfort to boost milk production, alongside empowering farmers with knowledge to reduce risks in dairy farming.
With these efforts, the NDA is poised to make significant strides in the Philippines’ dairy industry, fostering self-sufficiency and meeting the growing demand for milk.
