Government allots P39 M to beef up rubber production

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture has approved a P39 million-project that seeks to further develop the rubber industry in Agusan del Norte.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said the establishment of improved rubber enterprises in Butuan would lead to optimum potential for profit among rubber farmers and manufacturers in the whole CARAGA region.

The local government unit has sought funding assistance from the Philippine Rural Development Project to further develop the local rubber industry.

The project would create components including budded rubber seedlings production, provision of production inputs and tools through the Plant Now, Pay Later scheme, and consolidation of rubber cup lump, quality production and marketing.

Apart from boosting farmers’ income, the project is also expected to generate additional job opportunities for the communities.

Agriculturist Alberto Buca said there is a huge domestic demand for natural rubber as raw materials for slippers, mattresses, tires and laboratory supplies.

The Philippines imports 82 percent of its rubber needs from Thailand and Indonesia.

“There are potentials in developing the local rubber industry as a strategy of developing idle land resources and at the same time providing better livelihood opportunities to the farmers,” he said.

Latest government data showed that 98 percent of total land area planted with rubber is found in Mindanao while production reached 114,900 metric tons in 2014.

The Philippines is one of the top 10 rubber producing countries in the world.