Farmer-cooperators in Brgy. Lagui-sail, Laoag City harvested 6t/ha from the usual 4 t/ha this wet season by adopting the recommended inbred rice varieties and farm machines.
Demonstrated in PalaySikatan – a demonstration area showcasing technologies promoted by the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF)-Seed Program, national and regional recommended varieties including NSIC Rc 222, Rc 216, and Rc 160 showed good performance.
City Agriculturist Marilyn G. Martin said that farmers were impressed with the better crop stand of varieties in the demo area than with the varieties they planted. NSIC Rc 400, Rc 402, and Rc 480 were also shown in the PalaySikatan.
Farmer-cooperators added that mechanical transplanter and seed sowing machine also helped increase their harvest by 2t/ha.
“Now that farmers saw the impact, I’m confident that they will adopt the varieties and machines,” Martin added.
The RCEF-Seed Program is a component of Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication Law signed by Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, which allots P10 billion fund every year for the rice farmers. Sponsored by Sen. Cynthia Villar, the program is a six-year government initiative to help the farmers compete in the international rice market. The local government units and lawmakers assist in its implementation.
PhilRice leads the RCEF-Seed Program, and is the government’s lead agency on rice research and development mandated to help ensure a rice-secure Philippines. With eight stations across the country, its programs and projects are in line with the DA’s “Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita” battle cry. For more information about the Institute’s program, queries can be sent thru PhilRice Text Center (0917 111 7423) or email prri.mail@philrice.gov.ph.
