Manila, Aug. 28 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the local government units of Ilocos Norte are collaborating to further boost the cattle industry in the province and increase the income of farmers by 34 percent after two years.

Under the DA's Organic Agriculture Livelihood Program (OALP), breeder cattle are distributed to small farmers. The offspring produced by these cattle will then be turned over to other farmer-recipients, creating a sustainable cycle.

Aside from increasing the income of farmers, the initiative also teaches them to convert animal waste into organic fertilizers and enhance food security.

As part of the program, 22 cattle valued at approximately PHP1.4 million were turned over to the Siwawer Organic Practit...