COURTESY: PIA
Empowering Farmers Through Modern Mechanization
PhilMech proudly broke ground on March 3 in LALA, Lanao del Norte, launching the Drying System I Project under the RCEF Mechanization Program. This initiative strengthens post-harvest facilities and delivers vital equipment to rice-based cooperatives. Partnerships flourish across Barangays Lanipao, Rebe, San Isidro, San Manuel, and Magpatao in Lala, alongside Poblacion and Curvada in Kapatagan. Engineer Edgar B. Testa, Mindanao Cluster Head, highlights how the program boosts on-farm and off-farm efficiency—from land preparation to drying and storage. Farmers gain tools that slash production costs by 2-3 pesos per kilo and curb post-harvest losses by 3-5 percent.
The RCEF extension via Republic Act 12078 injects P30 billion annually until 2031, fueling modernization. Testa emphasizes the core goal: elevate farmers' income through heightened productivity. This vision aligns seamlessly with Bagong Pilipinas, channeling genuine government assistance to rural communities.
Voices of Progress and Partnership
MSU-IIT NMPC Chairperson Edward Banwa celebrates the collaboration, noting direct benefits for 205 farmer-members in Barangay Rebe. He describes the drying system shed as far more than a structure—it embodies unwavering government support, empowering farmers and fortifying national food security. Lala Mayor Angel Tata Yap welcomes the synergy between local government, PhilMech, and cooperatives, ensuring sustained aid.
Provincial Agriculturist Engineer Jalandoni Pitiilan ties the project to Governor Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo’s ambition: transform Lanao del Norte into Mindanao’s premier agricultural hub. These groundbreaking efforts weave efficiency, reduced losses, and rising incomes into the fabric of local farming. LALA advances boldly toward a thriving, progressive agricultural future.
