FLORA, Apayao – The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera, in collaboration with the Provincial and Municipal Local Government Units of Apayao and leading hybrid seed and chemical companies, recently organized a Provincial Rice Technology Forum (PRTF) cum Field Day in Flora, Apayao, on March 21, 2024.
The primary objective of this initiative was to convene key stakeholders involved in implementing a new approach to delivering production support assistance to rice farmers in the region. The forum also aimed to empower farmers by exposing them to a diverse range of hybrid rice varieties and fertilizers, thereby enhancing their decision-making capabilities to optimize yield and minimize production costs.
At the event, farmers gained valuable insights into the characteristics and benefits of different rice varieties and fertilizers, enabling them to make informed decisions suited to their specific environments.
Director Glenn DC. Estrada, Director for Digitalization and Value Chain Development, underscored the importance of embracing new technologies, noting that clinging to outdated practices hinders progress. He also encouraged farmers to continue clustering, as it significantly reduces operational costs, enhances harvest yields, and increases income.
Director Estrada also highlighted the MASAGANA Rice Program, which seeks to achieve rice self-sufficiency through enhanced productivity and the adoption of modern farming techniques. This program aims to reduce imports and improve the livelihoods of Filipino farmers.
Further, Provincial Governor Elias Bulut, Jr. expressed his support for the event. “This event is an important platform for showcasing the cutting-edge hybrid varieties, innovative technological packages, and the latest advancements in rice production, which are crucial for the continued growth and sustainability of Apayao’s agricultural sector,” he shared.
Moreover, Regional Rice Coordinator Edwin Joseph Franco introduced a new modality to merchants and suppliers for distributing interventions to rice farmers in the region. Under this approach, suppliers have the authority to market their seed and fertilizer products through merchants, who engage directly with farmers as end-users. This system ensures a unified price for hybrid seeds, inorganic and organic fertilizers, and soil ameliorants.
Transitioning from the voucher system to the Intervention Monitoring Card (IMC) will streamline the distribution process, facilitating potential expansion into insurance and loan payments for farmers.
The event was attended by farmers from Kalinga, Abra, and Apayao, as well as representatives from various seed and fertilizer companies, suppliers, and merchants. By Leny D. Mendoza
