Livestock and poultry play a crucial role in the growth of the agriculture sector, contributing to about 23 percent of the sector’s gross value added (GVA). In the second quarter of 2021, the poultry subsector also logged a 2.5 percent growth rate and remains a “major bright spot” for spurring agricultural growth.

To recognize the efforts of partners and stakeholders in boosting the development of these industries despite recent challenges, the Department of Agriculture (DA) leads the celebration of the first ever National Livestock and Poultry Month.

The celebration bears the theme "Paghahayupan, Kabuhayang may Ani at Kita Kahit Pandemya" as the DA and its partner agencies remain committed to help livestock and poultry farmers despite the threats of the African swine fever and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Department also urges the public to join this campaign as the sector faces these challenges head-on.

The DA’s National Livestock Program (NLP) will spearhead the celebration, together with the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), National Dairy Authority (NDA), Philippine Carabao Center, National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), and International Training Center on Pig Husbandry of the Agricultural Training Institute.

On October 4, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at the BAI compound to kick off the celebration. DA officials led by Secretary William Dar will also grace the opening program to be held at the NMIS Hall, which will be streamed live via the NLP’s Facebook page.

As part of the series of virtual and physical events, a painting competition, webinars, exhibit, and food and beverage fair will be held by the different agencies. In addition, the NDA will also lead the Dairy Week on October 11-15, 2021.

For the topics and link to the registration of the webinars, visit the DA-NLP Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nlpda.