A local agricultural official in San Gabriel, La Union, reported a significant increase in the town’s average yield, following its participation in the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) PalaySikatan technology demonstration from the 2022 dry season to 2023 wet season.
Municipal agriculturist Rizalina T. Quiros said that the town recorded a 1t/ha increase from 5.02 to 6.03t/ha.
The RCEF site showcased national recommended varieties (NSIC Rc 222, Rc 216, and Rc 402) and regional varieties (NSIC Rc 160 and Rc 480). Farmers also witnessed the performance of new varieties such as NSIC Rc 506, Rc 508, and Rc 512.
The efficiency of farm machines such as riding-type and walk-behind mechanical transplanters and harvesters were also promoted.
Farmer-cooperator Dexter Bacani said that he was able to save almost P200,000 cultivating his 3.5ha by trying out the technologies, especially the farm machines introduced in the PalaySikatan area.
“The machines are so efficient that I was able to free myself from the usual PhP300,000-PhP400,000 expenses every season from traditional farming, ” he said.
The RCEF Seed Program is a component of Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication Law, which allots P10 billion funds yearly for rice farmers. Sponsored by Sen. Cynthia Villar, the program is a six-year government initiative to help farmers improve their competitiveness. PhilRice leads its implementation, in partnership with the local government units and lawmakers.
