The San Sotero Primary Multi-Purpose Cooperative procured fifty (50) heads of ready-to-breed Heifer Brahmans and two (2) heads of Island Purebred Bull Brahmans which delivery was completed on April 28, 2022 to the newly-built multiplier farm in Brgy. San Sotero, Sta. Ignacia Tarlac.

The total of 52 cattle-herd serves as the parent stock for breeding and production of quality beef cattle meat. This project is under the I-REAP component of the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP).

The whole delivery process was divided into three (3) batches: first delivery was done on April 8, 2022 which included 23 heifers and 2 bulls; second delivery came on April 22, 2022 which brought 13 heifers; and the third one completed the herd with 14 more heifers on April 28, 2022. All of which were delivered to the newly built multiplier farm, situated on top of a hill with abundant forage to feed the herd.

The coop members are delighted that their farm is now in full swing and is looking forward to producing 48 cattle as their target for the first year of operation. “Kami po ay masayang masaya dahil naibigay na ang proyekto ito sa amin na siguradong makapagdadagdag ng income ng mga miyembro namin. (We are very happy for this project provided to us because this will surely add income for our members.)”, said the cooperative’s Treasurer, Mrs. Leonora Lamorena.

The DA-PRDP and Provincial Project Management and Implementation Unit (PPMIU) – Tarlac continue to help them through site inspections and monitoring to ensure the maintenance of the facility and well-being of the cattle.

This enterprise is seen to improve beef cattle meat production in the town and nearby areas. It will also help even non-member cattle raisers nearby through its artificial insemination service from its premium breed of cattle. Organic fertilizer will also be a by-product of the enterprise and will be utilized in sweetpotato production in nearby towns. (By: Ram Bill Bautista, RPCO3 InfoACE)