DBM releases P2.94 B for post harvest facilities

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released P2.94 billion to support community post-harvest development services and facilities nationwide.

According to the DBM, the money would be used to cover post-harvest facility requirements of various programs under the Department of Agriculture including the National Rice program, National Livestock program, and National Corn program.

The bulk of the amount or P396.8 million will go to Region XII which includes the provinces of North Cotabato and Sarangani.

Post-harvest services covered by the release will include drying, milling, and processing facilities; various equipment, including tractors, transplanters, plows, dryers, and seed cleaners;  as well as other basic equipment.

Following the special provisions in the GAA 2014, the agriculture department has been tasked to prioritize areas where majority of farmers listed under the Registry System on Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) are located.

Provinces or regions with a high incidence of poverty – as identified by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) – are likewise supported in this fund release. This ensures the implementation of post-harvest development facilities in the areas where the support is most needed, as specified by the DA in submission of their master plan to the budget department.