PBBM signs RA 12308, allocates P20B annually for animal industry

President Marcos has signed Republic Act 12308, the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act, establishing a P20 billion annual fund to support the country's livestock, poultry, and dairy sectors over the next decade.

This legislation creates the Animal Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (AnCEF), financed by tariffs on imported animal products, aimed at modernizing the sector and enhancing global competitiveness.

The Department of Agriculture, through Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., welcomed the law, emphasizing its contribution to food security, investment attraction, improved farmer incomes, and job generation.

The law elevates the Bureau of Animal Industry into a line agency of the DA and expands the mandates of the Philippine Carabao Center and National Dairy Authority.

It also strengthens capacity in biotechnology and vaccine development to combat diseases like African Swine Fever, Newcastle Disease, and Avian Influenza.