Batac City: The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte has initiated the distribution of free certified inbred seeds as part of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program, targeting registered farmers in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, DA-PhilRice Batac has allocated 99,008 20-kilo bags of seeds for rice farmers across the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan to prepare for the upcoming wet cropping season. The distribution process has been streamlined through the "Binhi e-Padala" digital system in the towns of Sarrat and Piddig, Ilocos Norte, where qualified beneficiaries receive a claim code via text message to present when collecting their seeds.
RCEF coordinator of DA-PhilRice Batac, Bethzaida Catudan, emphasized the efficiency of the new system, stating that eligible farmers need only to show their RCEF ID to claim their allotted seeds according to a pre-set schedule. The seeds selected for distribution, including NSIC Rc 216, Rc 222, and Rc 512, are noted for their resistance to diseases and pests and adaptability to the local environment.
Out of the initial 28,405 bags designated for Region 1 (Ilocos), 3,632 have already been distributed, primarily in Pangasinan. Marcial Agoto, a farmer from Laoag, expressed gratitude for the early distribution of quality seeds.
Last year, DA-PhilRice Batac distributed over 82,000 bags of free certified inbred seeds to nearly 46,000 farmers in the Ilocos Region, enhancing access to high-quality seeds for improved yields. The institute has also expanded its support programs by promoting rice production technologies through various media and intensifying training for agricultural workers and farmer cooperatives on best practices in rice cultivation.
Catudan reiterated the organization's dedication to supporting Ilocano farmers by ensuring timely seed delivery and providing crucial knowledge to boost yields and lower production costs. The RCEF Seed Program is part of Republic Act 11203, also known as the Rice Tariffication Law, which allocates PHP10 billion annually to aid rice farmers. This six-year government initiative, led by PhilRice in collaboration with local government units, aims to enhance farmers' competitiveness.
