For almost 25 years, Bobby M. Abad, 41 of Magarao, Camarines Sur, has been reaping only 300 bags (50kg/sack) from his 5-ha rice field. He thought that his yield will no longer improve as his farm is 150m near the coastal line. For lack of other choices, he had been planting an irrigated lowland variety.
Through a project collaboration, Abad at last received free seeds of NSIC Rc 338 (Salinas 17) — a PhilRice-bred variety for saline areas. Now, his yield averages 400-500 bags in his 5ha. Bobby, who also multiplies the variety, shares the seeds to his colleagues in the Rainfed Purong Farmers’ Association.
“We are very thankful for government programs that benefit us. We now have enough supply of high-quality seeds ideal for our salty fields,” Abad said.
