Cattle Fattening Revival in South Cotabato Driven by Local Farmers

Polomolok town in South Cotabato province is experiencing a resurgence in cattle fattening, led by Mayor Bernie Palencia to reclaim the municipality’s position as a top beef producer in the Philippines.

Palencia mentioned that the local government's efforts to revive cattle fattening were motivated by the country's largest meat importer choosing to purchase meat from local farmers.

Atkins Import-Export Inc., the biggest meat importer in the country, has inked a supply agreement with local agricultural enterprises Great Arch Farms and Braveheart Farms, owned by overseas Filipino worker Arnel Corpuz.

The agreement signifies a significant shift as major meat distributors start looking to Filipino farmers to meet the increasing domestic demand.

The farm will concentrate on cattle feeding and fattening while also engaging in breeding. Cattle require 22 hours of feeding daily and 24 hours of freshwater supply for optimal performance, which the farmers must manage.

Palencia emphasized that the cattle fattening initiative aims to establish a supply chain, showcasing that local farmers are prepared to compete and flourish.

Local farmers cultivating sorghum, soybeans, corn, copra meal, and cassava are anticipated to benefit from the increased demand, providing relief to those affected by the hog industry's decline due to African Swine Fever.

This new direction offers renewed hope and economic opportunities for many farmers in Mindanao, particularly those impacted by low market prices for corn and cassava.

Corpuz highlighted that the initiative is not just about raising cattle but also about revitalizing entire agricultural communities, expressing confidence that with adequate support, their farmers can feed the entire nation.

Former Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol noted that industry observers view First Atkins Import-Export Inc.'s decision to source more meat locally as a potential game-changer, inspiring other importers to do the same and invest in the local agricultural value chain.

As cattle fattening expands in the town, Palencia stated that the partnership between businesses and the local government serves as a model for enhancing farming and rural development in the region.

According to the source: Manila Bulletin.