By Sam Ramos
The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), under the Department of Agriculture, distributed 49 units of farm machinery and equipment worth PHP59.6 million to 20 farmers’ associations in Agusan del Norte on Friday.
The turnover ceremony, held in Barangay Sto. Niño, was part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) mechanization program, which is implemented under Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law. The initiative aims to boost the productivity, profitability, and competitiveness of rice farmers by providing modern agricultural equipment.
Domingo Miranda, assistant chief of PhilMech’s Facility Management and Field Operations Division, highlighted the program’s importance in equipping farmers with tools to improve rice production efficiency. He noted that the mechanization program is a key component of the government’s effort to support the agriculture sector.
Among the recipients, the Tagbaluca Irrigators Association from Cabadbaran City received a package that included a four-wheel-drive tractor, a floating tiller, a rice combine harvester, and a walk-behind transplanter. Cristina Damalerio, head of the association, expressed gratitude, saying the machinery will significantly enhance their productivity and ease their farming operations.
PhilMech officials, including Mindanao Cluster Head Edgar Testa and Caraga Region focal person Jingle Tinambacan, joined Miranda during the distribution. Since 2019, PhilMech has delivered 594 units of farm machinery and equipment worth PHP407.3 million to farmers’ associations across the Caraga Region, demonstrating the government’s commitment to advancing agricultural mechanization.