The Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program has been a game-changer for some Filipino farmers, providing high-quality certified seeds that have boosted productivity.

For 37-year-old Charlie Pasaquian, president of the Midpapan-Balogo Communal Irrigation System (CIS) in South Cotabato, RCEF not only transformed his farm but also reshaped his agriculture outlook. 

His perspective changed dramatically during a stint abroad when he saw a farmer driving a BMW in Taiwan—a sharp contrast to his long-held belief that farming meant a life of hardship. That moment, paired with the support from RCEF along the way, ignited and sustained his commitment to pursue agriculture.

“I wasn’t into farming, but it became my profession—and I’m proud of it. I’m a farmer,” Pasaquian said, reflecting on his path from childhood in Polomolok, South Cotabato, to becoming an agricultural leader.

Although he grew up in an agricultural community, his parents encouraged him to prioritize education over farming. As a result, Pasaquian initially pursued a teaching career for six years before seeking better opportunities abroad, where his view of farming shifted.

Inspired by the prosperous image of a Taiwanese farmer, Pasaquian returned home determined to make the most of his family’s 2.5-ha land. His leadership as president of Midpapan-Balogo CIS was crucial, particularly with the introduction of the RCEF Seed Program. The program provided inbred certified seeds and fostered collaboration with key agricultural agencies, enabling enough supply and access to high quality seeds of recommended varieties. 

“We make sure every opportunity and program is facilitated by our office,” Pasaquian emphasized, underscoring his commitment to securing resources for his community. 

His dedication, combined with RCEF’s support, led to tangible improvements in farming practices. Pasaquian cut his seeding rate from 120kg to 60kg/ha, resulting in cost savings and  lower fertilizer use.

Before RCEF, the average yield for Midpapan-Balogo CIS was under 5.5t/ha. Now, farmers are harvesting up to 7t/ha. With free seeds valued at P1,500 and an additional yield of 1.5t/ha, farmers are gaining approximately P7,500 more in income per harvest.

In recognition of these accomplishments, Pasaquian’s association was named one of the Most Outstanding Irrigators’ Associations in Cotabato and Region XII in 2022. The following year, they earned national recognition, and in 2023, their CIS was selected as a pilot for nationwide digital farming initiatives.

Pasaquian attributes much of this success to the RCEF Seed Program, which made high-quality seeds accessible and affordable. 

“Everything starts with high-quality seeds, and that’s what the program provides,” he said. 

Currently, he encourages fellow farmers to test new techniques and set aside portions of their fields for experimentation, aiming to establish a seed grower cooperative to further support local farmers.

Charlie Pasaquian’s journey—from witnessing a transformative moment in Taiwan to leading his community in South Cotabato—demonstrates how inspiration, coupled with the right resources, can lead to significant and lasting changes in farming communities.