NDA eyes P140.5-M budget for digital upgrade

MANILA, Philippines – The National Dairy Authority (NDA) is seeking a P140.5-million budget for 2027 to embark on a comprehensive digitalization program to streamline its regulatory services.

The proposed budget will be earmarked to establish the digital infrastructure for modernizing nationwide operations, particularly for fast-tracking processing and approving permit applications.

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According to the NDA, the digitalization agenda is a response to long-standing calls for faster, more transparent and more convenient regulatory transactions with the government.

“Dairy processors and business operators have consistently emphasized the need for online systems that reduce paperwork, minimize processing delays, and provide real-time updates on applications and compliance requirements,” the NDA said in a statement.

As the dairy industry rapidly evolves, NDA Administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya said their regulatory systems should keep pace with industry stakeholders’ needs.

“Digitalization is a necessary investment that will enable the NDA to deliver responsive, transparent, and efficient services while supporting the continued growth of the Philippine dairy industry,” Andaya said.

In an interview, Andaya said If Congress does not approve the budget, the NDA may look at tapping the P20-billion Animal Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to support its digitalization drive.

The NDA plans to develop key digital platforms that will allow industry players to submit applications online, upload documentary requirements, monitor their applications in real time, receive automated notifications and access regulatory records.

Through this system, the NDA seeks to streamline regulatory processes, improve compliance monitoring, and provide stakeholders with easier access to government services.

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Digital platforms include an online license to operate (LTO) portal for dairy processors, an online certificate of product registration (CPR) system, a milk feeding program monitoring application, and an enhanced online license to operate information system.

“This is expected to significantly reduce transaction costs, lessen administrative burdens, and improve ease of doing business within the dairy sector,” the NDA said.

Andaya said the NDA currently processes applications within 30 days under the existing system. As of writing, the NDA is handling around 300 applications nationwide.

Republic Act No. 12308, or the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act, provides additional regulatory functions to the NDA, including the issuance of LTO and CPR for dairy processors.

The NDA is also planning to create a secure and unified network connecting NDA central, regional and satellite offices nationwide, ensuring reliable access to information systems and facilitating real-time coordination among offices. /pai INQ