
With the public sector seeking to strengthen rice supply and enhance seed distribution, South Korea has committed USD 4.5 million to bolster the Philippines’ rice sector including the construction of a new rice seed warehouse in Isabela.
The facility, which includes cold storage, a generator set, and a forklift, was officially opened during the 33rd anniversary of Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) in San Mateo, Isabela under the theme “Binhi ang Susi.”
Branch Director Joy Bartolome A. Duldulao said that the warehouse is useful in ensuring high-quality rice seeds, which are crucial in securing the country’s rice production amid climate uncertainties.
The warehouse is part of the broader “Improving the Rice Supply Chain to Ensure Quality of Seeds and Milled Rice for Distribution and Buffer Stocks in the Philippines” project, funded through Korea’s Official Development Assistance.
The initiative, running until 2026, also includes a rice seed processing and storage facility at the PhilRice Central Experiment Station, storage facility in Ilocos Norte, and upgrades to the PhilRice’s Rice Seed Information System and National Food Authority’s rice seed information system to enhance production and distribution strategies.