A transformative shift has been observed in Camiguin as first-time planters adopt the use of certified inbred seeds from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).  Implementers have monitored Eduardo and Aida Jardin, farmers in Mambajao, who have seen significant yield increases from their 0.2-ha land area. The Jardins reported more than 2 tons yield after planting the certified inbred seeds.  They praised the variety’s yield, early maturity, uniformity of the […]

To help farmers cope with the delayed and limited rainfall this wet season, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte has stepped up its efforts in promoting the multi-purpose seeder.  Recently introduced in Marcos, Ilocos Norte and Bauang, La Union, 68 farmers who are transitioning from transplanting to direct-seeding, have observed the benefits of using the machine. “Direct-seeding through this machine resulted in visible rows and growth, […]

Farmers in Buenavista, Quezon have increased their productivity by locally producing the seeds of Mestiso 20 or M20 introduced by the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office (DA-RFO) in 2022 and have proven to be resilient to diseases and drought. One of the seed producers, Alex Simbajon, received training from DA-RFO and started growing M20 seeds in his 1.5 ha. He sold his seeds to other farmers in the area, including […]

Farmers in Laguna and Quezon have shown preference for the 500 series varieties, particularly NSIC Rc 512 and Rc 508, which were distributed by the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program. In RCEF technology demonstration sites called PalaySikatan, rice growers from Nagcarlan, Laguna, praised NSIC Rc 512 for its high tiller count, sturdiness, and disease resistance.  Meanwhile, farmers in Infanta, Quezon, preferred NSIC Rc 508 for its elongated grains […]

The Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Rice Extension Services Program (RCEF RESP) has trained thousands of farmers in Regions 6 and 7 involving farmer-to-farmer knowledge transfer approach, where farmer-trainers share their learnings with fellow farmers in their communities. The program targets farmer-leaders who can easily convene meetings and influence their peers to adopt new agricultural technologies. The leaders have also established or assumed roles in farmer associations or cooperatives, bringing more […]

The Rice and Corn Seed Growers Association (RICOSGA) in Negros Oriental has reactivated its operations after receiving support from the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program. RICOSGA chair Ariel Capilla said that the once inactive seed growers’ organization was faced with challenges such as low membership, limited funds, and lack of seed procurement. With the help of PhilRice and other partner agencies, […]

Farmers in Tulunan, North Cotabato are reaping the benefits of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program, which has improved the town’s practice of certified inbred seed leading to increased yield.  Farmer Roel P. Lapating attested to the positive changes brought about by the RCEF Seed Program.  “Because of the RCEF certified inbred seeds, our harvest has soared to 4.4-6t/ha. As long as we have access to resources for […]

The Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Rice Extension Services Program (RCEF RESP) will distribute information, education, and communication (IEC) materials to 35,000 farmers in four provinces this dry season. Technology calendar, handouts on rice farming-related mobile apps, and brochure on direct-seeded rice production, will be given to farmers in Northern and Eastern Samar, Camarines Norte, and Catanduanes. To be distributed along with the free certified inbred seeds from the RCEF Seed […]

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Foundation granted the farmers under the Rice Business Innovations System (RiceBIS) Program in  San Carlos, Negros Occidental with P5.2 million to help them increase their income. Hernan Samson, chair of the farmers’ organization, expressed his gratitude to BPI and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), which houses the program. “It’s a huge blessing for us to obtain a truck, rice mill, and this fund […]

Newly appointed agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has pledged to focus on reducing rice importation during his tenure — a commitment made during the Ugnay Palay: 35th National Rice R4D Conference at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Nov. 29. “Our ultimate goal is to swiftly reduce rice imports for food security and efficiency. We also aim to inspire a new generation […]