Philmech sets test for new agri tech

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Center for Mechanization and Postharvest Development (Philmech) is setting for commercial testing next year four key agriculture technologies that are expected to contribute to the government’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in food staples as well as maximizing the use of high value crops.

The four key technologies set for commercial testing are: mechanical cassava drying machines; production of pectin from mango peels; use of combined far-infrared and convection heating to dry mango slices; and use of biocontrol agents for pest control.

The agency is now working with potential private sector partners for the commercial testing of the technologies that have passed the laboratory testing stage.

Philmech executive director Rex Bingabing said the agency is encouraging private investors to become pioneer users of the technologies.

Philmech has developed two cassava drying machines: a conveyor-belt type machine with a biomass furnace that could dry granulated cassava to a moisture content of 13 percent in 2.5 hours; and a modified flatbed drier with a mixer that could dry cassava to the same moisture content in 12 hours.

Philmech has also modified existing rice moisture meters to be used in determining the moisture content of granulated cassava. This will help cassava farmers achieve the moisture content desired by buyers.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is encouraging the cultivation of cassava to be used as an additive for animal feeds.

Dried granulated cassava is usually brought by large food companies like San Miguel Corp. for use as feed ingredient.

Bingabing said San Miguel has agreed to use the cassava drying machines for the commercial testing phase.