The Department of Agriculture (DA) inaugurated the Rice Processing System under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Mechanization Program at Barangay Macatbong in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, on 17 September.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. led the ceremony, joined by Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization director IV Dionisio G. Alvindia, DA Regional Field Office (RFO) III regional executive director Eduardo L. Lapuz Jr., National Food Authority regional manager II Jeoffrey S. Paraton, and NFA branch manager Ma. Luisa L. Luluquisen.

Third District Representative Julius Cesar V. Vergara and Cabanatuan City Mayor Myca Elizabeth R. Vergara were also present.

A ribbon-cutting, blessing, and facility tour highlighted the project, which aims to boost rice production in Nueva Ecija, improve rice quality, and enhance farmers’ livelihoods through faster, more modern processing.

A Rice Processing System is an integrated facility of modern mechanical dryers and multi-stage rice mills provided to farmer cooperatives to reduce post-harvest losses and lower processing costs.

Cabanatuan City is a major hub for rice production and agricultural modernization in Nueva Ecija, the “Rice Granary of the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, 18 hybrid rice varieties were showcased during the Provincial Hybrid Rice Derby held at Barangay Pinagpanaan in Talavera on 11 September. The derby is part of the provincial government’s push to develop production and livelihood opportunities for Nueva Ecija farmers.

Twelve hybrid seed companies presented 18 hybrid rice varieties that were analyzed and compared in rice paddies. Through the Field Day and Preferential Analysis, farmers were given the chance to personally inspect and provide feedback on the various hybrid rice varieties.

The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist organized the Provincial Hybrid Rice Derby, together with the DA RFO III Rice Program and the Municipal Agriculturist Office of Talavera.