GOVERNOR Dennis Pineda led Tuesday, October 8, the distribution of carabao to farmer-beneficiaries, a joint livelihood assistance program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office (RFO)-Central Luzon and the Provincial Veterinary Office.
Dr. Augusto Baluyut, PVO officer, said the distribution of 28 carabaos is aimed at providing alternative livelihood projects as support to farmer-beneficiaries to augment their income.
Baluyut said through the assistance of DA-RFO-Central Luzon, the Provincial Government could help the farmers upgrade their livestock through the production method.
The provincial veterinarian said they will also help farmers in carabao production by giving technical assistance on artificial insemination and in performing the pregnancy diagnosis through rectal palpation to some carabaos.
Third District Board Member Ananias Canlas Jr., chairman of the committee on agriculture, said the provision of livelihood assistance through animal distribution is one of the priority projects of Pineda that could strengthen the capabilities of the target beneficiaries in livestock production.
The farmer-beneficiaries came from Candaba, Arayat, Bacolor, Mexico, Sta. Ana, Porac, City of San Fernando, Lubao, Sta. Rita and Magalang.
On behalf of the farmer-beneficiaries, former Arayat village chief Ronnie Miranda has expressed his gratitude to Governor Pineda, Vice Governor Lilia Pineda, and the DA-RFO officials for their support in providing farmers a source of draft animals to cultivate their farm, thereby reducing the cost of production and increase farm income.
Witnessing the carabao distribution were DA-RFO-Central Luzon representatives, Baluyut, Angelina Blanco, special assistant to the governor, and other stakeholders. (PR)