Pilmico Foods Corporation (Pilmico) and the City Government of Tarlac forged a partnership in the “Healthy Alternative Campaign” to promote the local rabbit industry as an alternative source of protein and livelihood. They formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Agreement last October 4, 2023, at San Fernando, Pampanga.
Norie Bermudez, Pilmico Country Director for Agribusiness, emphasized that the initiative is a significant milestone in the rabbit-raising industry. “At the core of this program lies the spirit of teamwork and collaboration. Our collective mission is to position rabbit meat as a mainstream protein source alongside chicken, pork, and beef while also empowering local raisers with alternative livelihood opportunities,” she said.
Sharing this mission is Mayor Cristy Angeles, who has been a longtime advocate of rabbit raising in Tarlac City and said, “We recognize the importance of diversifying our protein sources, reducing our carbon footprint, and enhancing the livelihood opportunities for our fellow Tarlaqueños. Rabbit meat, being low in fat and an excellent source of lean protein, fits perfectly into this vision.”
As a rabbit raiser herself, Mayor Angeles’ previous initiatives include a rabbit production program for local organizations and a rabbit meat cook fest in Tarlac City.
Pilmico will provide educational materials, technical support, and training on rabbit farming and meat production to equip local farmers with valuable skills for sustainable livelihood. “By sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, together we can uplift the lives of our local raisers and ultimately improve the livestock industry in the City as a whole,” Bermudez added.