MILK FOR EXCELLENCE

Recognizing the importance of milk in a person’s diet and proper nutrition, the City Government of Olongapo is tapping the optimum potential of goat as one the sources not only of meat, but more importantly for milk.

Through the funding granted by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. will allow the indigent women of Olongapo to venture into goat-raising as a source of livelihood.

Presently, goat-raising in the city is being undertaken by a handful of Aeta women at Sitio Mampueng in New Cabalan.

According to research, goat is popularly known as the poor man’s cow because children and women who can’t afford cow’s milk drink goat’s milk instead. Aside from being cheap, goat’s milk is more digestible compared to cow’s milk. Goat is also easier to raise due to its low feedlot and feed requirements.

Gordon is pushing for the raising of goats to combat malnutrition, which is prevalent among rural areas. “If farmers can raise their own source of fresh milk, they don't need to buy commercially produced cow’s milk,” he said.

“This is to make goat milk available to every household in the city and provide additional income for the women,” Gordon said.

The recipients targeted are women, especially non-working mothers. Those with malnourished children will be prioritized.

Gordon has assigned Acting City Agriculturist Jhobal Sebarrotin and City Veterinarian Dr. Arnold Lopez to oversee the project and conduct seminars and provide technical services when necessary.

“We are encouraging the barangays to identify potential recipients among their constituents. The recipient barangay and individuals also need to ensure that there is a stable source of fodder,” said Sebarrotin.

Barangays can increase the efficiency of their area by utilizing idle resources like vacant lots where grasses and weeds grow.

This project also seeks to produce by-products of goat’s milk into saleable items such as yogurt, pastilles and cheese.

PAO/chay