Tantangan, South Cotabato—The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center XII launched the "Training on Dairy Milk and Milk Product Processing with Value Adding" on May 11, 2026, at the 4-H Hub in San Felipe. The multi-day program convened Agricultural Extension Workers and dairy farmers for a structured capacity-building activity focused on modern dairy production and management. This training is conducted in partnership with the National Dairy Authority – Southern Mindanao Department to standardize technical practices within the livestock sector.

The opening program featured an address by OIC-Center Director Jessie V. Beldia, Ph.D., who highlighted the role of continuous learning and innovation in strengthening the national dairy industry. During the sessions, participants examined the current status of the Philippine dairy cattle industry and discussed strategies to address operational challenges. Dr. Sherwin John Canono, Project Development Officer III of the National Dairy Authority, facilitated technical discussions on housing requirements, facility management, animal welfare, and sanitation protocols essential for maintaining productive dairy herds.

These sessions provided attendees with a technical framework for improving farm-level efficiency and product quality. By integrating science-based management practices, the training aims to equip stakeholders with the necessary tools to navigate market trends and enhance their operational standards. The exchange of information between facilitators and participants served to strengthen the regional network of dairy stakeholders, fostering a collaborative approach to livestock development.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support the modernization of local livestock farming. By providing extension workers and farmers with specialized knowledge in dairy processing and value-adding, the program contributes to the long-term economic development of the participants' local communities through increased agricultural productivity and the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities.