The National Dairy Authority (NDA) will propose a PHP140.5 million fund in the 2027 budget for the establishment of digital infrastructure to modernize its operation and regulatory services nationwide.

In a statement on Thursday, NDA Administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya said the proposed digitalization program will help address the long-standing clamor of private stakeholders.

Dairy processors and business operators have been calling for faster, more transparent, and more convenient regulatory transactions with the government.

They want reduced paperwork, minimal processing delays, and real-time updates for their applications and compliance requirements.

“The dairy industry is rapidly evolving, and our regulatory systems must keep pace with the needs of stakeholders,” he said.

“Digitalization is a necessary investment that will enable the NDA to deliver responsive, transparent, and efficient services while supporting the continued growth of the Philippine dairy industry.”

Under the proposed digitalization program, the agency will develop and enhance key digital platforms, including an Online License to Operate (LTO) Portal for dairy processors; an Online Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) System; a Milk Feeding Program Monitoring Application; and an enhanced Online License to Operate Information System.

These systems are expected to streamline regulatory processes, improve compliance monitoring, and provide stakeholders with easier access to government services.

The proposal also seeks to establish a secure and unified network to link the NDA Central Office with Regional and Satellite Offices nationwide to help ensure reliable access to information systems and facilitate real-time coordination among offices.

The modernization effort is seen to boost food safety oversight, improve monitoring of milk feeding programs, enhance data-driven decision-making, and support the government’s broader agenda of digital transformation and ease of doing business. (PNA)