MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL — The Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental launched the Baratong Bugas para sa mga Misamisnon (BBM) Asenso Rice Program in selected municipalities on 17 January 2025. This initiative aligns with the national Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, offering affordable rice at ₱43 per kilo while supporting local farmers.

Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal introduced the program in the towns of Jimenez, Aloran, and Sinacaban, the province's information office confirmed.

This initiative, conducted in collaboration with local officials including Jimenez Mayor Joselito Chiong, Aloran Mayor Junipher Roa, and Sinacaban Mayor Dello Lood, aims to make rice more accessible to families while ensuring critical support for the agricultural sector.

The rice distribution for each town is as follows: Jimenez - 1,854 bags, Aloran - 2,200 bags, and Sinacaban - 2,000 bags (each bag weighing five kilograms). Residents can purchase the rice at municipal halls during weekdays while supplies last.

Governor Oaminal emphasized the significance of the launch as the first large-scale effort of its kind in Misamis Occidental. He reaffirmed his commitment to agricultural development and farmer welfare, which is aligned with the province’s 5Ms Mantra: “Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon, ug Malipayon” (Peaceful, Prosperous, and Happy Misamisnon).

Winston Catane, chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, expressed his support for the initiative, stating:
“Ang point ni Governor nga kung ato napalambo ang atong mga farmers, kinahanglan nga kini nga klase nga benepisyo kinahanglan nga mapaabot nato sa mga konsumante. In what way, atong ibalik pag baligya ang atong gipalit nga humay sa barato nga presyo.”
(The Governor's point is that if we help develop our farmers, we must ensure that the benefits reach consumers through affordable rice.)

The provincial government has allocated ₱100 million in support of local farmers. This initiative aims to directly benefit the agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of the province’s economy.

Through the Asenso Rice Farmers Full Assistance Program, farmers receive comprehensive support, including land preparation, post-harvest facilities, and marketing assistance. This reduces costs, boosts production, and increases incomes.

Locally produced rice is sold exclusively to Misamisnons, ensuring affordability while contributing to food security. The program’s marketing component has significantly increased production output, bolstered the province’s GDP, and supported economic stability.

Governor Oaminal highlighted that as the BBM Asenso Rice Program expands, it sets a benchmark for sustainable agricultural development, food security, and economic growth in Misamis Occidental.

Meanwhile, Governor Oaminal secured ₱125 million in funding for a crucial Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) project in Misamis Occidental.

The Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP Scale-Up) approved the project on 10 January 2025, which involves constructing a 12.32-kilometer Panalsalan-Cartegana-Luzaran-Dampalan-Macalibre Alto FMR. This project will benefit the municipalities of Lopez Jaena and Plaridel.

The approval, formalized through a No Objection Letter (NOL) from DA-PRDP, marks a milestone in the province’s infrastructure development.

“This is a vital step in improving the lives of our farmers and residents. It strengthens our vision of creating a prosperous, peaceful, and thriving Misamis Occidental,” Oaminal said.

Once completed, the FMR will enhance access to agricultural areas, allowing farmers to transport goods more efficiently to markets. This will stimulate local economies and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

Governor Oaminal congratulated the residents of Lopez Jaena and Plaridel, acknowledging their role in the success of the initiative. “I worked hard to ensure that this project, and others like it, will faithfully address the needs of our farm-to-market roads across the different municipalities of the province,” he said.