THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) has expressed support for cage-free and free-range egg production systems, describing them as farming approaches that can advance both animal welfare and sustainable agricultural production.
In a statement, the bureau reaffirmed its commitment to promoting animal welfare while encouraging sustainable livestock and poultry production practices across the country.
According to the BAI, cage-free and free-range production systems offer alternatives to conventional cage-based egg farming and respond to growing consumer interest in food products produced under higher animal welfare standards and more sustainable farming practices.
It also highlighted its ongoing collaboration with Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) in developing certification standards and conducting capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of farm animals.
“Transitioning toward cage-free systems is not only a humane choice but a strategic step toward aligning the Philippine agricultural sector with global sustainability goals,” said BAI officer-in-charge Anthony Bucad.
The agency said cage-free and free-range production systems support the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 15 on Life on Land.
The BAI encouraged local egg producers to consider cage-free and free-range production models as part of broader efforts to improve industry standards and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Philippine poultry sector. It added that it remains committed to assisting stakeholders seeking to adopt higher animal welfare practices while maintaining agricultural productivity.
For its part, AKF welcomed BAI’s statement, saying it reflects increasing recognition that animal welfare and farm productivity can be pursued together.
Heidi Caguioa, president and program director of AKF, said the organization and the BAI have worked together on awareness campaigns and science-based initiatives aimed at improving conditions for laying hens.
Caguioa described the bureau’s statement as one of the government’s clearest expressions of support for cage-free and free-range egg production systems, adding that it reflects growing attention to farm animal welfare within the Philippine livestock and poultry industry. (thephilbiznews.com)
