The DA-Philippine Carabao Center-National Institute for Animal Science (DA-PCC-NIAS) formally inaugurated its Semen Sex-Sorting Laboratory at the DA-PCC National Headquarters and Gene Pool in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija on 18 September 2026.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has prioritized the construction of the facility to boost the livelihood and income of farmers, especially that the carabao is an indispensable partner of farmers in the agricultural sector.

The new facility will help proliferate quality breed of carabaos and boost the production of carabao milk and meat in the country.

The facility marks a major advancement in the country’s livestock reproductive biotechnology, enabling the local production of sex-sorted semen to support genetic improvement, herd development, and increased dairy production.

The event also brings together local and international experts, government officials, industry stakeholders, and partners for an international seminar this afternoon, highlighting developments and applications of semen sex-sorting technology in the livestock industry.

The carabao industry in the Philippines centers on smallholder farmers who use the swamp-type water buffalo for draft power, meat (carabeef), and a growing dairy sector.

The national carabao population is roughly 2.54 million heads. About 99% of these animals are raised by smallholder farmers.

Traditionally used for plowing rice paddies and hauling goods, carabaos now function as dual- or triple-purpose animals (draft, meat, and milk) providing a financial safety net for rural households.