The United Brgy. San Antonio Sto. Tomas Farmers’ Association Inc. in Sto. Tomas generated Php 424,000 in gross income from the sale of ten cattle provided by the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Phase 2.
Association President Danilo B. Suratos said these cattle were part of a larger Corn Production Project from SAAD valued at Php 1.4 million. The project provided the association with 32 cattle including corn seeds, fertilizers and farm inputs.
Between May and November of last year, ten of these cattle were sold to local buyers, fetching prices between Php 35,000 and Php 56,000 per head.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished as an association. This project has opened new doors for our members, and the income generated will allow us to strengthen our operations and invest in a sustainable future,” said Suratos.
Upon receiving the cattle in May 2023, the association members decided on a strategy of individual care and management. Each member took responsibility for a designated number of animals, ensuring close monitoring of their health and growth.
A shared understanding of best practices for cattle rearing, gained through previous training and workshops conducted by SAAD Ilocos, guided their approach.
They implemented a consistent feeding regimen, utilizing a portion of their sweet corn harvest as fodder for the cattle.
When the cattle reached the marketable size, the association implemented a targeted marketing strategy focused on selling them as liveweight. Recognizing the strong demand for high-quality beef within their province, they then approached several local buyers, creating a competitive environment that maximized their returns.
A key element of the association’s strategy was its innovative rollover policy. Members selling their cattle were required to return 40% of their gross income to the group.
The income generated from these sales, after the rollover contribution, is expected to be reinvested into other farming activities. This includes purchasing additional cattle to expand their herd, upgrading farming infrastructure, and potentially exploring new agricultural ventures.
Suratos expressed deep gratitude for the support provided by the SAAD Program, acknowledging its pivotal role in their development.
“The support from the SAAD Program has been invaluable in helping us develop our skills in both cattle and crop farming,” Suratos stated. “We are now more confident in our ability to grow and continue improving our community.”
The remaining 22 cattle, representing a significant portion of the initial herd, are currently under careful management. Association members are diligently adhering to the established best practices for animal husbandry, ensuring the cattle receive proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a stress-free environment conducive to healthy growth. ###
