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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this initiative aim to position rabbit meat in the Philippine protein market?
The program’s core objective is to elevate rabbit meat from a niche product to a recognized mainstream protein alongside chicken, pork, and beef. By combining government backing, technical training, and the reach of an established feed company, the campaign seeks to build consumer awareness and create a reliable supply chain that sustains long-term demand for rabbit meat across the country.
What is the ‘Healthy Alternative Campaign’ and what did Pilmico and Tarlac City agree to under it?
The Healthy Alternative Campaign is a joint program between Pilmico Foods Corporation and the City Government of Tarlac aimed at promoting rabbit meat as a mainstream protein source and a sustainable livelihood for local farmers. The two parties formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Agreement on October 4, 2023, in San Fernando, Pampanga.
What nutritional and environmental benefits make rabbit meat suitable as an alternative protein source?
Rabbit meat is low in fat and a rich source of lean protein, making it a healthy dietary choice. Its production also has a lower environmental footprint compared to conventional livestock, contributing to reduced carbon emissions. These qualities align with efforts to diversify protein sources in a way that is both health-conscious and environmentally responsible.
What support will Pilmico provide to rabbit raisers in Tarlac City under this agreement?
Pilmico will supply local farmers with educational materials, technical training, and ongoing support in rabbit farming and meat production. The aim is to equip raisers with practical skills and knowledge that enable them to run sustainable and profitable rabbit farming operations, contributing to the overall improvement of the city’s livestock sector.
What role has Mayor Cristy Angeles played in advancing rabbit raising in Tarlac City?
Mayor Angeles has been a long-time advocate and active practitioner of rabbit raising. Her prior initiatives in Tarlac City include distributing rabbits to local organizations and hosting a rabbit meat cook fest to promote consumption. Her personal commitment to the cause made the city a natural partner for this Memorandum of Agreement.
