Manila: The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) on Saturday distributed PHP101.053 million worth of dump trucks and other farm implements to mill district development councils (MDDCs) and block farm recipients in Negros Occidental: The distribution, funded through the Sugar Industry Development Act, included 10 dump trucks valued at PHP7 million each, aimed at boosting farm efficiency and productivity.

According to Philippines News Agency, seven units were allocated to MDDCs, while the remaining three were assigned to the SRA-La Granja Agricultural Research and Extension Center (LGAREC). SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona expressed pride in providing farmers with equipment to improve farm operations. The dump trucks will transport raw materials like mudpress and vinasse fertilizers, supporting the soil rejuvenation project and aiding small sugarcane farms.

Additionally, 137 farm implements worth PHP27.406 million were distributed to block farm recipients. A farm tractor with attachments, valued at PHP3.647 million, was given to The United Block Farm Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Small Planters Organization in the Fifth District. Negros Occidental 5th District Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo emphasized the importance of modern equipment in increasing productivity amid decreasing land hectarage for sugarcane.

Roger Regalado, chair of Hacienda Sto. Ni±o United Farmworkers Association in Victorias City, and Israel Telis, chairman of Lopez MDDC in Sagay City, received the dump trucks and farm implements for their members. SRA Board Member David Andrew Sanson highlighted the dream of supporting every planter and farmer in their sugar production efforts.

The SRA's Block Farming Program consolidates individual farms with a minimum of 30 hectares within a two-kilometer radius owned by small farmers agrarian reform beneficiaries. Under the program, sugarcane production is expected to increase by 5 to 10 tons per hectare.