Negros island: The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) distributed multi-functional power sprayers valued at nearly PHP15 million to 137 sugarcane block farms on Negros Island. This initiative is part of the government's farm mechanization support, funded under the Sugar Industry Development Act.
According to Philippines News Agency, Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona and Board Member David Andrew Sanson spearheaded the turnover ceremony at the SRA-La Granja Agricultural Research and Extension Center. Azcona highlighted the impact of the fuel crisis on fertilizer costs, which have nearly doubled, and the challenges posed by pests and typhoons to sugarcane farms. He emphasized the SRA's commitment to providing essential equipment to support sugarcane farmers, especially regarding fertilizer application.
The farm mechanization initiative by SRA is aimed at enhancing efficiency in farm operations, pest management, and crop protection within sugarcane-producing communities. Azcona noted that the knapsack power sprayers could be used for applying beneficial micro-organisms to boost production with reduced fertilizer use and for spraying fungus to combat the red-striped soft scale insect infestation.
In total, 229 units of 4-in-1 knapsack power sprayers, each costing PHP64,990, were distributed to block farm associations. These versatile units are designed for multi-purpose agricultural applications, capable of handling both granule and liquid formulations and functioning as mister blowers. From 2016 to 2026, 193 units were allocated to block farm beneficiaries, while 28 units were designated for SRA mill district offices as standby equipment. Additionally, eight units were assigned to the LGAREC research laboratory for field operations and research activities.
Sanson urged sugarcane farmers to strengthen their cooperation and unity in supporting the programs and initiatives of the SRA and the government. Following the ceremonial turnover, expert technicians from All Certified Equipment Trading Corp. provided a hands-on operator's training session to ensure that block farm beneficiaries and SRA personnel can fully utilize and maintain the equipment.
