BACOLOD CITY — In a major step toward advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PhilMech) has turned over ₱178.57 million worth of modern farm machinery and equipment to 24 farmers’ cooperatives, associations (FCAs), and local government units (LGUs) across Negros Occidental.
The turnover, held in Bago City on Tuesday, is part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) 2024–2025 allocation, aimed at improving productivity, reducing production costs, and increasing the competitiveness of local rice farmers.
Empowering Negrense Farmers Through Mechanization
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed gratitude to DA-PhilMech for continuing to empower the province’s farmers with appropriate tools and technology.
“You are the instruments that help our farmers enhance their capacity and earn more from their hard work,”
Lacson said during the ceremony, acknowledging the crucial role of farmers in sustaining the province’s rice supply.
Bago City Mayor Marina Javellana-Yao also lauded the collaborative effort between the DA and the provincial government, describing the event as a milestone for local farmers.
“Our farmers continue to give life and strength to our city. This program proves that they are seen, valued, and supported by our government,”
Yao said.
Bago City remains the top rice-producing LGU in Negros Occidental, contributing around 30 percent of the province’s total rice output.
Machinery for Modernized Farming
Under the RCEF Mechanization Program, the newly distributed equipment includes:
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17 units of four-wheel drive tractors worth ₱39.95 million
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15 units of rice combine harvesters worth ₱30 million
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4 village-type rice mills valued at ₱2.72 million
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2 precision seeders worth ₱3.46 million
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1 advanced drying system costing ₱102.44 million
The program is expected to reduce production costs by ₱2–₱3 per kilogram and cut post-harvest losses by 3%–5% through the use of efficient, modern post-production technologies.
A Long-Term Investment in Agricultural Progress
From 2019 to 2025, Negros Occidental has received a total of 1,053 units of various rice machinery and postharvest equipment valued at ₱719.91 million, benefitting 205 FCAs and 23 LGUs, according to DA-PhilMech data.
These investments form part of the government’s long-term effort to strengthen food security, increase farmers’ income, and modernize the country’s rice production system.
— NPO News Team | PNA-PR
