The Philippines is grappling with the challenge of enhancing its milk production to combat malnutrition among impoverished children, as milk remains a luxury for many poor families. Despite a marginal reduction in dairy imports from 99% to 98% in 2023, the nation's self-sufficiency in milk is still under 1%. Authorities, including the Philippine Dairy Administration and the Philippine Agricultural and Food Chamber of Commerce, are pressing for the implementation of the National Dairy Development Act, which targets a 5% local milk production by 2028 and the creation of dairy zones across the islands. Achieving these objectives requires substantial funding boosts and support from international partners, notably New Zealand, a leading milk producer.