LAGAWE, IFUGAO – – Far away from the main Barangay Poblacion East section of the capital town of Lagawe, a farmer-businessman has built an integrated farm with extensive facilities set on its own imposing grounds for agoat-raising venture.
At the very moment Noel Bunoy opted to pursue this plan at his integrated farm, many welcomed the development and elicited probing questions to help countless folks from almost the whole province come together to hear about it but could not easily grasp it.
At the one hectare integrated farm, Bunoy meticulously planned the landscape. He created a detailed list of crops, considering their quantities, suitability to the specific area and their overall result. Also, here he conceptualized the planned project. Aptly, he is bannering said project as Bunoy Integrated Farm School, Inc. (BIFSI).
The BIFSI operates in Barangay Olilicon in Lagawe. Olilicon is about 46 kilometers north of Lagawe proper (passing through Lamut). It’s a peaceful small farming village with 420 inhabitants.
The 28- member BIFSI seeks to establish a goat-raising farm in the village. In 2025, the BIFSI placed the project cost at nearly Php 6 million. This figure appears no longer applicable due to upsurge of prices. Most Filipinos considered inflation as an urgent concern.
“I hope this project open more doors for our people to attain better living conditions,” Bunoy said.”Helping them is truly rewarding and fulfilling,” he added.
Of course, his sentiments reflect a snapshot of the agriculture sector’s past and present challenges.
To understand the importance of goat-raising in the country, one must also know about the impact of goat’s milk in the economy and people’s health. Many Asian countries have benefited greatly as a result of huge investments in the goat dairy industry. It’s time for Filipinos to thrive in goat milk production.
The Philippine government is currently engaging with the United States to discuss enhanced access to key export interests such as dairy products.
Livestock production in 2025 saw a significant decline. Hog production recorded the highest contribution. Department of Agriculture reports show that the population of goats is declining. There are several instances when goat population decreased due to typhoons. Good goat population is often influenced by the available grazing areas and sufficient feeds such as “madre de cacao” and “kakawate leaves”. This brought about overseas goat meat purchases.
The current economic situation is tough. Appropriate approaches can be determined by understanding well this situation, existing issues and potential developments in the agricultural sector.
Actions taken in the past in pursuit of similar projects in Ifugao are not to be recommended. These projects glaringly failed.
Why would anyone want to keep using the same outdated formula in obtaining funds for this projects? Largely because it was so incredibly silly for Ifugao folks not to get out of their comfort zone.
Things change-prices go up, way beyond one’s reach, ghosts projects are prevalent- nothing stays the same.
Leadership in governance is very significant because it does not only transform this sector but also brings societal changes.
A new perspective in leadership- not clouded by corruption and incompetence in local government units is what the country needs. Responsive leadership is the call of the day in the countryside.
Encourage private sector partnership with farmers to engage in enterprise development and improve market access of producer groups.
Many developments in this sector began in 2019 confirming that the understanding and appreciation of the problems and solutions advanced by Governor Jerry Dalipog was correct.
Dalipog will continue to nurture a legacy of trust and distinction that will endure for generations to come. Many are especially keen to show the accomplishments to incoming generations. Many are especially keen to show the accomplishments of Governor Dalipog, particularly the best side, including Alfred Uh-hub of Lamut town. He remains firm that “agriculture is a key driver of Ifugao growth.”
If you’re ready to go into integrated farming for the sake of increased productivity and income, you’ve come to the right place. It’s here at Barangay Olilicon.
Through this bold initiative, poverty-stricken Ifugao sees an immerse opportunity to boost its economy.
The Senate-via the General Appropriations Act of 2027, has the power to enrich the people’s lives. Bunoy will play a crucial role in bringing this vision to life by focusing on the following: Do something decisively, Think big and Knock at the Senate doors now! Until these tasks are done, repetition of failed goat-raising projects will truly be waiting public funds. **By Anthony A. Araos
