The Province of Bohol is one step closer to realizing the goal of becoming the Milk Capital of the Visayas after the Bohol Dairy Producers Association (BODPA) in Ubay, Bohol received its first tranche of support from the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) amounting to P5.8 million pesos from the total P9.2 million.

“This is a boost in the morale of the associations and a fundamental component in the realization of Bohol’s goal,” said Dr. Stella Marie D. Lapiz, Provincial Veterinarian of Bohol Province and I-REAP Component Head.

GRINNING FROM EAR TO EAR. Representatives from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian of Bohol and the Bohol Dairy Producers Association proudly flashes their checks during the short turnover ceremony.

For BODPA Manager Shirley Molina, the first release of financial assistance to BODPA goes beyond words can measure. According to her, the project will convert old habits into better ways under the guidance of PRDP.

CASH BASIS METHOD

Portion of the capitalization empowers BODPA to pay farmers who supply raw milk in cash. With the rolling of the cash basis method, more farmers are expected to milk more carabaos thus, an increase in production.

The cash basis method will solely be dependent on how much milk a farmer can supply as buying price will be at P50 per liter.  One carabao can provide at least three liters and in a month’s duration, a farmer will earn an income close to P5,000.

Consumers can now enjoy dairy products in different flavors from the Bohol Dairy Producers Association.

MARKETING AND PROCESSING

Under the processing component, BODPA will be able to purchase the appropriate packaging equipment enabling them to easily market their chocobao products and further penetrate higher markets such as hotels and malls.

With the service of a chiller or refrigerated van, BODPA will be able to engage in direct marketing with the assurance of product safety and quality. A mobile dairy product parlor will be displayed during major events like festival, foundation or fiestas, showcasing their whole set of products. This will also strengthen advocacy platform in the consumption of carabao milk as an alternative to the ones available in the market.

“I am very positive about this endeavor as farmers serve as witnesses to farmers getting paid. And with the association earning, more farmers will take interest and join,” added Dr. Lapiz.

With the dairy buffalo raised in Bohol, access to healthier options are made accessible to the masses while supporting farmers producing the milk.

Currently, BODPA supports around 18 member associations and will be open to accepting more as implementation progresses. (Bexmae P. Jumao-as, DA-PRDP RPCO 7)