Davao City: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced the successful conduct of the first harvest festival for locally produced hybrid rice seeds in Barangay Rang-ay, Banaybanay, Davao Oriental province this week. This event marks a significant step toward enhancing local seed production and supporting the agricultural sector.

According to Philippines News Agency, DA 11 (Davao Region) Executive Director Macario Gonzaga highlighted the importance of innovation and the development of local seed production to improve the lives of Filipino farmers. The initiative aligns with DA's Administrative Order 9, which focuses on promoting hybrid rice production and emphasizes the critical role of local seed production in strengthening the agricultural industry.

Gonzaga stated that prioritizing hybrid rice seed production contributes to improved productivity, better disease resistance, and increased resilience within the local rice farming community. This strategic focus is integral to driving growth and ensuring the sustainability of agriculture in the region.

During the harvest ceremony, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., represented by Director Emerson Yago, emphasized the significance of using locally produced hybrid rice seeds. Yago, who is the designated focal person for rice clustering and consolidation under the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program, noted that locally produced seeds reduce the country's reliance on imports.

Data from DA-11 indicates that approximately 2,024 hectares in the region are planted with hybrid rice during the dry season. Notably, 1,737 hectares are in Davao Oriental, with Banaybanay and Lupon emerging as leading producers of hybrid rice seeds. Yago further mentioned that the DA aims to achieve a seed ratio of 60 percent imported and 40 percent locally produced hybrid rice seeds by 2024, a reversal from this year's target of 40 percent imported and 60 percent locally produced.