The Philippine dairy industry posted strong growth across key indicators in the first half of 2026, recording increases in milk production, herd inventory, output value and farm-gate prices, the National Dairy Authority (NDA) said Friday.

NDA and Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data showed local milk production rose 21.2 percent to 25.38 million liters from January to June 2026, up from 20.94 million liters in the same period in 2025.

The national dairy herd expanded 6.5 percent to 165,858 heads in 2026 from 155,662 heads last year.

At constant 2018 prices, the value of production reached PHP975.73 million as of June 2026, up 21.4 percent from PHP804.04 million previously.

Farm-gate prices as of March 2026 also trended upward, with cow’s milk rising 0.41 percent to PHP 47.05 per liter and carabao’s milk climbing 4.95 percent to PHP 89.55 per liter.

NDA Administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya noted that these figures reflect expanding production capacity and greater economic opportunities for local milk producers.

“Our farmers are becoming more confident in investing in their farms because they see a growing and reliable market for their milk. With the support provided by the NDA and the increased demand generated by government nutrition programs, including the Department of Education’s School-Based Feeding Program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s feeding initiatives, and local government feeding programs for daycare children, farmers are encouraged to expand their herds, invest in quality feeds, and increase milk production,” he said.

He added that the government’s procurement of locally produced milk through the Sagip Saka Act gives farmers confidence that a ready market exists for their growing output.

The Zamboanga Peninsula posted the highest growth rate at 128.66 percent, followed by the Caraga Region at 72.03 percent, and the Ilocos Region at 58.15 percent. (PNA)