The Bulgarian Carabao Dispersal Project—conceived by Francisco P. V. Cayco, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Arellano University—first launched in 2006 in Barangay Batasan Matanda, San Miguel, Bulacan. In partnership with the Kababaehang Barangay Development Foundation, the University initially provided three carabaos to foundation members to support their livelihoods and agricultural activities.
Recognizing the program's long-term potential, Arellano University expanded the initiative to Barangay Masalipit in 2009. Among its early beneficiaries was local resident Rolando “Ka’Punting” De Jesus, who received parent stock from the University that became the foundation of his livelihood. Over the years, what began as individual livestock raising evolved into a collective community effort. By 2024, local farmers formally registered through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-DRW) to establish the Samahan ng mga Magsasakang Nag-aalaga ng Gatasang Kalabaw, electing Ka’Punting as president to lead efforts in strengthening local agricultural income through carabao milk production.
To further amplify this success, student leaders across all five Arellano University campuses joined forces. Led by Dhennis H. Castañeda, President of the Arellano University Supreme Student Council (AUSSC)–Juan Sumulong Campus (JSC), alongside his executive officers—Vice President Yna Lei B. Caliguiran, Secretary Janaan O. Dela Peña, Treasurer Jen Drobie A. Ilaog, Auditor Precious Cassandra F. Felimor, Public Relations Officer Ysabella Marie S. Santos, Business Manager Erich N. Acot, Assistant Secretary Francisco C. Corencho, Chairperson for Partnerships and Linkages Phoemela Ashley D. Razon, Audit Committee Officer-in-Charge Shiena S. Barbarona, and Chairperson for Plans and Programs Gerard F. Bacaoco—the council raised financial support to help purchase additional livestock. The initiative was also supported by Carl Stephen San Juan of The Arellano University Standard Manila.
Demonstrating unified leadership across the university system, fellow AUSSC campus presidents actively joined the cause: Nassifah Sarip (Andres Bonifacio Campus), Sam Christian M. Paghubasan (Jose Abad Santos Campus), JC C. Cervantes (Jose Rizal Campus), and Angela Mae Tamse (Plaridel Campus). Their joint participation underscored a shared commitment among student leaders toward grassroots community development.
The project was facilitated by the Office of Community Development (OCD) under the guidance of Director Adreline Ansula and Social Awareness and Environment Program Coordinator Lerma L. Rivera, ensuring meaningful collaboration and long-term sustainability.
On October 19, 2026, the AUSSC officers traveled to Barangay Masalipit, San Miguel, Bulacan, to carry out the turnover. Accompanying the student leaders were university administrators, including Director Sherwin Punla, LPT, MBA (Director for Student Affairs and Services and Dean for Student Affairs), as well as Branch Office Coordinators (BOCs) Cristine Joy A. Sangco (ABC), Justine Jann B. Reyes (AMC), Albert James C. Respino (JASC), Catherine S. Mancenido (JSC), Karla Joan M. Magdaet, LPT (JRC), and Prince Albert C. Esguerra (PC).
By providing direct financial assistance for the acquisition of a carabao, the Arellano University Supreme Student Council demonstrated that student leadership extends far beyond campus walls. The initiative serves as a meaningful reminder that true community development relies not only on immediate support, but on fostering genuine partnerships, understanding local needs, and driving sustainable progress.
- Dhennis H. Castañeda
 AUSSC President – Juan Sumulong Campus
Â
Comments