Gov't targets to increase PH milk output to 80 million liters by 2028
By Jel Santos

The Philippines is eyeing to boost its milk production to 80 million liters by 2028 to help improve the country’s dairy sector, the National Dairy Authority (NDA) said.
NDA administrator Gabriel L. Lagamayo said they are seeking to increase the output 2.5 times over the next five years. He said the demand for milk by 2028 is pegged at 2.143 billion liters.
During a meeting with Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr., the NDA said boosting the milk output of the Philippines requires a “dramatic increase in the number of animals in the milking line, enhancing dairy productivity, expanding distribution networks, constructing additional dairy-related infrastructures, and promoting the consumption of local milk and dairy products.”
The DA chief agreed with the NDA's analysis that increasing the number of cattle on the milking line would enhance production and have an immediate impact on the dairy sector.
“Developments in this sector will not only benefit our farmers but also help address malnutrition in the provinces,” the DA chief stated.
Laurel has expressed full support for NDA’s plans as he cited the positive impact of developments in the dairy industry, describing it as “a low-hanging fruit” in the government's goal of boosting agriculture’s contribution to the economy.
Per the data of the NDA, cattle production in 2023 reached 17,850 metric tons, accounting for approximately 0.8 percent of total milk consumption of 1.937 million metric tons.
“This consumption figure represents an increase of 1,372 metric tons compared to the previous year (2022),” it noted.
The NDA projects that milk consumption would climb even more this year, reaching 1.978 million metric tons.
Milk for enhanced academic performance
In January, the NDA and the Department of Education (DepEd) partnered for the 2024 School-Based Milk Feeding Program (SBFP).
Lagamayo said fresh milk consumption offers a scientifically proven avenue to enhance students' cognitive abilities and academic performance.
The NDA said parents and students should integrate fresh milk into their diet because of the many benefits of local fresh milk, which is rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamins crucial for brain development and overall well-being.
Studies have consistently underscored the pivotal role of proper nutrition in facilitating optimal cognitive function and academic achievement, the agency noted.