A transformative initiative to modernize the cattle industry in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was officially launched on January 23, 2025, with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) among the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR-BARMM), and SEAALS Agri-Food Co. Inc.
This landmark partnership aims to establish a sustainable livestock development program in BARMM, with plans to import 1,000 breeder cattle from Australia over the next three years.
The initiative seeks to position BARMM as a leading producer of halal meat and dairy products, significantly contributing to the region’s agricultural sector and economic growth.
MinDA will serve as the lead coordinating agency, collaborating with BARMM institutions, national government agencies, and other stakeholders. It will oversee strategic planning, recommend financial resources, and provide advisory support to ensure the program’s success.
MAFAR-BARMM, on the other hand, will allocate land for livestock farming and feed production while offering logistical and administrative support.
“We can establish processing facilities for milk production, enabling BARMM to supply other regions with high-quality halal products,” said BARMM Minister Mohammad S. Yacob.
The initiative not only bolsters local food security but also strengthens BARMM’s position in the global halal market, unlocking new export opportunities.
SEAALS, the private sector partner, will spearhead technical and operational components of the program. This includes conducting site inspections, crafting a detailed project roadmap, and implementing capacity-building initiatives to train local farmers and MAFAR personnel in modern livestock management and sustainable farming practices.
The program aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of modernizing agriculture, promoting grassroots development, and ensuring food security.
It is also a step toward addressing long-standing agricultural challenges, improving livelihoods, and fostering environmental resilience in Mindanao.
With its focus on sustainable practices, this collaboration is poised to transform BARMM into a hub for halal-certified meat and dairy products, enhancing its economic potential while uplifting the lives of local communities.
