Harvesting Progress: The RCPT Initiative in MARAMAG, Bukidnon — A Model for Modern Corn Production

COURTESY: (JLO/DA-10/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

Overview of the Project

The Department of Agriculture–Northern Mindanao (DA-10), in coordination with the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of Maramag, held a field day on Sept. 19 in Barangay Kiharong to promote corn cultivation methods under the 500-hectare Recommended Corn Production Technologies (RCPT) project. Consequently, the RCPT project features genetically modified (GM) hybrid yellow corn seeds and seeks to promote farming practices, increase the supply of corn for food and feed, and support farmers through value chain integration. The project is implemented by 12 farmers’ cooperatives and associations in eight barangays. A total of P7.25 million worth of hybrid seeds and fertilizer was provided to 723 farmers for one cropping season. Each farmer received two bags of corn seed and 10 bags of inorganic fertilizer per hectare.

Furthermore, Maramag Municipal Agriculturist Armand dela Cruz said the local agriculture office has been supporting farmers with soil sampling, seed and fertilizer application, and other production activities. “Through recommended production technologies, we hope to achieve higher yields, better quality, and greater income for our farmers,” he said. Therefore, the coordinated technical assistance and input provision illustrate a comprehensive approach to improving local corn productivity.

Impact and Outcomes

Beneficiaries reported notable improvements. For instance, Carmelito Balaba, president of the Dagumbaan Farmers’ Association in Barangay Dagumbaan and an RCPT beneficiary, said the assistance has helped improve results for farmers in his area. He observed that prior to support, farmers used traditional varieties with limited yields; whereas now, “pinaagi sa GM hybrid seeds nga gihatag, mas dako ug mas mayo ang harvest labi na kung hapsay ang yuta ug husto ang pagtanom.” (Before the inputs, our members relied on traditional corn varieties with low yields. Now, we’re grateful for the support, especially the hybrid variety, which produces bigger cobs when planted in well-prepared farmland.)

Moreover, crop cut results shared during the field day included plant population and height; ear diameter, length, and number per plot; kernel and cob weight; shelling recovery; field moisture content; pest incidence; and yield. Reported harvests ranged from 5.73 to 9.57 metric tons per hectare. In addition, Janet D. Lopez, chief of the DA-10 Bukidnon Provincial Operations Center, acknowledged Maramag as one of two RCPT project recipients in the region this year and congratulated local partners for their support of DA programs. Likewise, Richard Apare, Corn Program reports officer of DA-10, encouraged farmers to form clusters to improve efficiency, strengthen market access, and expand eligibility for government support programs.

Conclusion and Forward Path

Consequently, this initiative supports the current administration’s vision of a food-secure Philippines and a vibrant agricultural industry, anchored in stronger local partnerships and modern production technologies. Moving forward, continued collaboration among DA-10, MAO Maramag, the Provincial Agriculture Office, and farmer cooperatives will remain essential to sustain yield gains, enhance market linkages, and secure long-term benefits for corn producers in MARAMAG, Bukidnon.

Cultivating Growth: DA-10's Commitment to Agricultural Prosperity in Misamis Oriental

COURTESY: DA-10

In a significant effort to bolster rural agriculture and enhance food security, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) has recently distributed agricultural interventions worth PhP9,691,500 to local government units (LGUs) and registered corn farmers’ associations in Salay and Sugbongcogon towns of Misamis Oriental. This initiative, executed on May 23, embodies the DA-10’s steadfast commitment to invigorating rural economies and supporting local farmers in their quest for sustainable livelihoods.

The distribution encompasses a diverse array of agricultural inputs, including hybrid yellow corn seeds, fertilizers, vegetable seeds, bamboo seedlings, and essential farm tools. Specifically, each municipality received 550 bags of hybrid yellow corn seeds and an equal quantity of complete fertilizers, underpinning the DA-10's Corn Program. Additionally, the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) played a pivotal role by providing a significant amount of vegetable seeds to enhance farmers' income diversification. Notably, local farmer Amelita P. Trabajo expressed her deep gratitude for the assistance, highlighting that the resources not only support their livelihood but also ensure food supply for their families.

Strengthening Agricultural Infrastructure

Moreover, the DA-10's commitment extends beyond crop interventions. To further strengthen the agricultural infrastructure in Sugbongcogon, the agency allocated a Php990k poultry house funded under the Livestock Program. This facility aims to enhance local livestock production and provide farmers with additional income opportunities. In addition, plans are underway to establish swine and goat multiplier farms, with investments of PhP5.6 million and PhP2.4 million, respectively. These initiatives reflect the DA-10's holistic approach to agricultural development, promoting not only crop production but also livestock management.

The involvement of key stakeholders, including Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and Farmer-Director Nilda B. Salas, underscores the collaborative effort necessary for the success of these initiatives. By fostering close coordination with LGUs and ensuring the effective delivery of various farm assistance programs, the DA-10 reaffirms its dedication to agricultural prosperity in Misamis Oriental. This concerted effort not only aims to uplift local farmers but also seeks to achieve long-term food security for the entire region.