The Quezon Codcod RiceBIS Farmers’ Agriculture Cooperative (QUECORIFACO) in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on March 19 received a P5.2 million equipment grant to support its expanding agribusiness ventures.
The Bank of the Philippine Islands Foundation (BPIF), Inc. is equipping the organization with enterprise machines that include a truck and a rice mill, which will enhance their transport and production necessities.
“QueCoRiFACo currently comprises five associations with plans to expand their reach across 415 hectares, benefiting over 300 farmers,” Anileen Pajarillo of PhilRice Negros said.
“To prepare for this expansion, cooperative members have undergone training in capacity enhancement, packaging and labeling, and good agricultural practices. Soon, their farms will undergo assessment and certification by PhilGAP,” Pajarillo reported.
The turnover and blessing ceremony was held in Quezon Multipurpose Gym, San Carlos City, with BPIF Executive Director Ma. Carmina Marquez and other officers. Deputy ED for Development Karen Eloisa Barroga represented PhilRice.
Meanwhile, farmer-leaders shared challenges spanning rice production to marketing in the launching ceremony of RiceBIS 2.0 in Calauan, Laguna on March 21.
The attendees gained insights into the program’s comprehensive framework, which outlined various components, expected outcomes and the pivotal roles of stakeholders and market partners. The program aims to empower rice-based farming communities.
