MALAYBALAY CITY (November 3, 2025) — Central Mindanao University (CMU) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) are building livestock multiplier farms in Bukidnon to boost food production, support farmers’ income, and strengthen food security

The project will focus on breeding swine, goats, and ducks to expand livestock supply, strengthen farmers’ groups, and sustain Bukidnon’s status as Mindanao’s food basket.

CMU President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe said the initiative aligns with the university’s mandate to promote sustainable agriculture and community development.

“Multiplier farms will allow CMU to produce quality livestock breeds for distribution to farmers’ groups and communities. This will help address poverty and improve food supply,” Eballe said during a recent episode of the KBP Bukidnon Interaction radio program.

CMU’s College of Agriculture and Department of Animal Science will lead the project, while the DA will provide feeds, technical support, and other resources. CMU will supply land and labor as its counterpart.

Eballe said the university is working with legislators and partner agencies to secure funding for project expansion.

“If the first cycle succeeds, we expect continued support from local leaders to sustain and scale up this initiative,” he added.

The project will also be integrated into CMU’s extension programs, giving students and faculty practical training in research-based livestock production.

CMU is coordinating with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to develop short training courses in animal production and agribusiness for farmers and young people.

Eballe said the multiplier farm initiative supports CMU’s four-point agenda—instruction, research, extension, and production—which has guided the university’s work as Northern Mindanao’s premier agricultural institution for 115 years.

“The project shows how academic-government collaboration can boost livestock production, empower farmers, and advance national food security,” Eballe said. (Michael B. Daming/GIP/PIA-10/Bukidnon)