The PHP12-million support from the National Dairy Authority (NDA) for a cooperative’s milk processing plant began operations on Wednesday in Misamis Oriental.

In an interview, Robert Enerio, chairman of the Northern Mindanao Federation of Dairy Cooperatives (NMFDC), said the new facility marks a significant upgrade from their existing pasteurization system.

“With the addition of sterilization technology, the shelf life of milk products is expected to extend up to six months,” he said.

Enerio said the upgraded facility will boost dairy supply for Northern Mindanao farmers, aiding government feeding programs by the Department of Education and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The project, funded by NDA and loaned to NMFDC, includes modern equipment such as chilling tanks and a blast freezer at the federation’s processing plant in El Salvador City.

NDA Northern Mindanao Manager Jester John Jadap said the agency is committed to supporting local dairy farmers in adapting to industry demands while ensuring long-term sustainability.

He said the new system allows the facility to produce sterilized milk in packaging, including fresh and flavored variants, expanding regional dairy market opportunities. (PNA)