Taganaan: Fifty farmers from seven barangays in Taganaan, Surigao del Norte, each received a carabao during a one-day dispersal on Tuesday, launched by the Department of Agriculture-Caraga Region (DA-13) through its National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP) and the Bureau of Animal Industry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the release of animals is part of the agency's Organic Large Ruminants Dispersal Program, aimed at boosting carabao production and supporting sustainable livelihoods for farmers. 'With the support of the Taganaan local government unit, 50 farmers were identified as recipients under the program from seven barangays, including Union, Upper Libas, Lower Libas, Laurel, Aurora, Himama, and Opong,' DA-13 said in a statement Wednesday.

Each beneficiary received a female carabao of appropriate age, fit for breeding and draft work, including plowing fields, hauling carts, and carrying loads. 'This is a big help on my farm, from plowing to other hauling needs,' said Rodel Buasa, a farmer from Barangay Opong. Buasa added that the mature female carabao he received is ready for breeding and thanked the government for its support.

The dispersal program includes a pay-forward scheme, ensuring continuity and expansion. Each beneficiary will pass the first calf of the carabao they received to the next qualified beneficiary. The agency also provided beneficiaries with free livestock insurance through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation. Prior to the dispersal, the recipients underwent Organic Carabao Production Training on April 21-22.