Rice farmers in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental are enhancing their productivity and efficiency with advanced agricultural technologies provided by the local government under the PalaySikatan 2.0 Technology Demonstration Ceremonial Crop Establishment, part of the Rice Comprehensive Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program.
The program introduced drone-seeders, walk-behind transplanters, riding-type transplanters, and drum seeders, which can reduce operational costs, save time, and increase productivity compared with traditional farming methods. These technologies are made accessible to farmers free of charge by the Bayawan LGU, allowing more farmers to benefit from these innovations.
Municipal agriculturist Kenneth S. Artes highlighted the potential of the farm machines.
“Exposing farmers to these technologies will revolutionize their approach to farming, making it easier and more effective. We also need to capacitate more farmers to ensure they are competent in using these technologies,” Artes said.
Shellua B. Gerian, a farmer-cooperator, praised the result of the new machines, particularly the drone seeder.
“I’ve been manually seeding my 2-ha paddy fields for years. With these technologies, the process is faster and much less labor-intensive,” Gerian shared.
Previously, she spent around P6,000 on labor for seeding, a cost now eliminated thanks to the Bayawan LGU’s provision of the drone seeder at no charge.
In addition to providing access to advanced equipment, government support further ensures that these technologies are within reach, while training and technical assistance are provided to help farmers effectively utilize them.
PalaySikatan 2.0 is an expanded technology demonstration initiative in selected areas, showcasing recommended inbred seed varieties and innovative farming technologies across 50ha per site.
The RCEF Seed Program, a component of Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law, allocates P10 billion annually from rice tariff earnings to support rice farmers. This six-year government initiative, backed by local government units and lawmakers, aims to enhance the competitiveness of Filipino farmers.
