Nueva Ecija rice project introduces cost-effective technologies

Farmer-members of the Bagong Pag-asa ng Magsasaka in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija can expect to increase their rice yields and profit with the use of input-reducing and cost-effective rice production technologies as part of the project Mobilizing Knowledge for Improved Productivity and Profitability.

The project, which was initiated by Rep. Rodolfo W. Antonino of the 4th district of Nueva Ecija with support from other agencies such as the local government of Cabiao, PhilRice and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) in Nueva Ecija, was launched June 1 in Brgy. San Fernando, Cabiao. It covers 50 hectares adjacent farms and involves some 30 farmers.

As the country’s lead agency for rice R&D, PhilRice through its Technology Management Services Division, will provide technical assistance to the project through training and technical briefings. These activities will focus on topics that will address major problems in the area such as high seeding rate, lack of basis for fertilizer application, and production loss especially during the wet season.

The project also features a loan system wherein farmers can avail themselves of P16,000-production loan for every hectare farm, payable after harvest with 10 percent interest. The production loan is provided by the 4th congressional district office and will be managed by the local government unit (LGU) of Cabiao.

The interest will be part of the cluster fund.

The project is spearheaded by the 4th congressional district office and the LGU of Cabiao. It will be implemented in collaboration with PhilRice and OPAG, NE.