CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Rice farmers in Misamis Occidental are expected to benefit from improved rice quality and increased income following the inauguration and turnover of modern post-harvest facilities from the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PHilmech) on June 4.
Under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) – Mechanization Program of DA-PHilMech, a Rice Processing System (RPS) comprising of multi-stage rice mill and recirculating dryers (two units in Tangub City) was turned over to the Provincial Local Government Unit of Misamis Occidental.
The facilities worth PhP39.4-million (M) were established in barangay Sta. Cruz, Tangub City and Barangay Buenavista, Oroquieta City.
Engr. Edgar B. Testa, Cluster Head for Mindanao-A of DA-PHilMech, said that the facilities aim to minimize post-harvest losses, improve grain quality, and increase the market value of locally produced rice.
He added that the project will support local rice farmers by improving processing efficiency, reducing grain losses, and enhancing the quality of milled rice.
The centerpiece of the facility is a 20-meter by 50-meter warehouse, provided as a counterpart by the PLGU MisOcc along with the land.
Standing at 14.2 meters high, the warehouse houses the 1.5 tons per hour capacity multi-stage rice milling equipment and the 6 tons per batch capacity recirculating dryers.
DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan of the DA-Regional Field Office 10, emphasized that the department is implementing integrated strategies such as the provision of post-harvest facilities, and subsidies for fertilizer and rice seed to reduce production costs and ensure affordable rice for consumers.
He further noted that said efforts aim not only to lower farming expenses but also to gradually restore soil health and increase agricultural productivity.
Importantly, DA-10 is responsible for accrediting qualified beneficiaries for these interventions, ensuring that support is channeled to eligible farmers and cooperatives.
MisOcc Governor Henry S. Oaminal hailed the RPS as a historic development, being the first of its kind in the province.
He emphasized that the project was realized through the collaborative efforts of the PLGU and DA-PHilMech, with the PLGU providing the necessary counterpart support.
The RPS is expected to help local farmers and cooperatives enhance their productivity, improve product quality, and expand market access, ultimately contributing to the long-term goal of a more competitive and sustainable rice industry in MisOcc.
