To the men and women of DA-Philippine Carabao Center, congratulations on your 32nd anniversary celebration.
The saying “A small spark can start a great fire,” perfectly encapsulates the vision of my father, former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, when he championed the passage of Republic Act No. 7307 thirty-two (32) years ago, paving the way for the creation of the Philippine Carabao Center.
What was once frowned upon as his “Carabao English” ignited an opportunity to advocate for the propagation and the promotion of Philippine carabao’s role beyond that of a draft animal — uplifting the lives of Filipino farmers and turning the beast of burden into a beat of fortune.
The carabao, an animal highly prized for centuries as the pillar of rural Filipino existence, is more than a draft animal; it is a testament to our agricultural heritage, the farmer’s greatest ally, and a source of income for a myriad of farmers.
And so today, we celebrate an institution and honor the impact of a vital law that has significantly improved the overall productivity of the Philippine carabao for the benefit of rural communities. The PCC illustrates how even simple ideas, when driven by purpose and action, can evolve into something monumental, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
The strides PCC has achieved, contributing to science, research, and the carabao industry, are truly commendable.
The agency’s efforts in conserving, promoting, and propagating the carabao have indeed been transformative. We have not only increased the productivity of the carabao but also created sustainable livelihoods for thousands of farmers. These initiatives by the DA-PCC have helped in the establishment of a robust and resilient rural economy.
As a tribute to my father’s legacy in the enactment of RA 7307, I am fully committed to advancing the growth of the livestock sector. This is why I have recently co-authored Senate Bill 2558, the proposed “Livestock, Poultry, and Dairy (LPD) Industry Development and Competitiveness Act” which aims to support the expansion and improve the productivity of our country’s livestock, poultry, and dairy industry – empowering the Filipino farmers we serve and driving the growth of our country’s agricultural economy.
The greatest legacy of the good work that we do today will have a lasting impact – a better tomorrow for our children and the next generations to come.
By strengthening these initiatives and embracing our collective “malasakit” and love for our country, we can create a sustainable agricultural sector, uplift the economic well-being of our farmers, and preserve the rich heritage that defines us as Filipinos.
As an agency dedicated to fostering innovation in the livestock industry, I am confident that the PCC will continue to achieve even greater milestones in the agricultural landscape in the coming years.
To the leadership, researchers, staff, and every individual who has been part of the PCC over the past three decades, thank you for your unwavering dedication and passion. Your work and commitment have not gone unnoticed.
Maraming salamat at mabuhay po tayong lahat!