Philippine Cage-Free Association launches to drive cage-free transition

Cage-free egg production is gaining global momentum as consumers, corporations, and governments recognize its role in improving animal welfare and food sustainability. The shift reflects rising demand for ethically produced food and the need for farming systems that remain economically viable for producers. 

Against this backdrop, the Philippine Cage-Free Association (PCFA) was formally launched to accelerate the country’s transition. Backed by Global Food Partners (GFP), the association aims to connect producers, institutions, and stakeholders to make cage-free farming practical, sustainable, and commercially viable. 

Sharon Castro, PCFA President, emphasized that the group is producer-led and focused on supporting farmers. ‘Supporting Farmers. Advancing Cage-Free’ is its guiding message, reflecting its commitment to both animal welfare and economic viability.

PCFA President Dr Sharon Castro

Rising demand and corporate commitments

The launch comes at a time when global and regional demand for cage-free eggs is rising. Over 2600 companies worldwide and 300 in Asia have pledged to source 100% cage-free eggs by deadlines ranging from 2025 to 2035. 

“The shift in preference roots from consumers achieving a higher level of awareness of their food choices,” Dr Castro told aviNews Asia. “As consumers become more aware of where their food comes from and how animals are raised, the shift in their purchasing decisions create demand for cage-free egg production.”

Major brands such as Jollibee, KFC, Burger King, Hyatt, and Marriott International have established timelines. Marriott has already achieved about 75% implementation in Asia Pacific, with notable progress in the Philippines, South Korea, and Vietnam. Hilton Hotels in the Philippines have reached full cage-free sourcing.

Expanding retail and hospitality adoption

Retailers are also expanding cage-free offerings. Healthy Options and Fresh Start are fully cage-free, while Metromart is close to 90%. Other chains, including Metro Retail and Eve Grocer, are increasing cage-free shelf space. 

Hospitality and food service sectors show strong adoption, with 78% commitment coverage in restaurants and 85% in hotel groups. The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) has provided institutional backing, recognizing cage-free and free-range systems as advancing animal welfare and sustainable production.

Supporting producers through PCFA pillars

Dr Castro noted that farmers cannot drive the transition alone. Demand from foodservice companies, retailers, and consumers is essential. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are prioritizing food quality and ethical production. 

Animal welfare has emerged as a top concern among these consumers, influencing purchasing decisions and creating predictable markets for cage-free eggs. This shift gives producers greater confidence to invest in new housing and management systems. 

PCFA has outlined three pillars to guide its work. First, technical education and training will help producers manage cage-free systems effectively. Second, science-based guidelines and benchmarking will ensure farms meet international welfare standards. Third, collaboration among farmers, veterinarians, suppliers, and retailers will strengthen the value chain. 

Support includes farm assessments, access to technical experts, and information on housing systems, flock management, and environmental practices. The association also intends to help producers understand certification requirements and animal welfare expectations.

Aligning with international welfare standards

PCFA believes Philippine cage-free production should align with internationally recognized welfare principles while adapting to local conditions. Benchmarking will cover stocking density, feeder and drinker access, perches, nesting facilities, litter, lighting, flock health, and biosecurity. 

Dr Castro stressed that international standards should not be copied blindly but translated into practical systems suited to Philippine farms. The goal is a credible, transparent, and measurable cage-free sector capable of meeting global expectations. 

GFP complements PCFA’s mission with financial and technical tools. These include the Transition Fund, offering low or zero-interest loans; Impact Incentives, providing offtake guarantees; and Innovation and Welfare Hubs, which train farmers in cage-free management. 

Such support addresses cost, availability, and technical challenges, ensuring that animal welfare transitions remain economically viable for local producers.

Building a sustainable future

Dr Erwin Cruz, a pioneer in Philippine free-range farming since 1998, highlighted the importance of empowering smallholder farmers. His introduction of dual-type genetics provided both egg and meat income for provincial farmers. 

Dr Erwin Cruz

PCFA builds on this vision by bridging small farmers to high-end markets. The association aims to ensure that cage-free farming is not only welfare-driven but also profitable and sustainable. 

It also plans to work closely with government agencies to encourage policies that strengthen the cage-free sector. Dr Castro explained that the association will consolidate producer experiences and bring them into policy discussions. 

Key areas include animal welfare, poultry health, biosecurity, food safety, farm standards, certification, and market access. Rather than simply requesting regulations, PCFA seeks science-based, practical, and achievable policies. 

PCFA’s launch signals a turning point for Philippine poultry farming. With rising demand, corporate commitments, retail expansion, and government support, the association provides a platform to empower farmers and advance animal welfare. Its immediate action is to onboard more Philippine farmers into the cage-free transition loan pilot.

In the long-term, PCFA envisions a sector where cage-free farming is technically sound, economically viable, and aligned with consumer expectations.