Regional Technical Director (RTD) for Operations and Extension Crispulo G. Bautista, Jr. challenged the MAOs to increase the rice production of their province.

“I would like to congratulate the Province of Aurora because Central Luzon’s total rice production last 2017 reached 3.63 million contributing about 19% of the national production. A record-breaking in the country total production of 19.28 million metric tons. Aurora shared 100,000 metric tons with an average yield of 4.2 tons per hectare. On the other hand, Central Luzon average yield is 5.04 tons per hectare thus I am challenging you to increase your average production.”

“Check and study the occurance of typhoons in Aurora with the help of PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) to determine if there’s a need to adjust your planting season either to advance or delay it. Additionally, we may also full force our assistance.” Bautista continued

He also recommended the use of certified seeds (CS).

“We have CS available on our warehouse we can give them for free. But we will release them to qualified farmers who haven’t tried them yet.” said Bautista

“We are mandated for the Filipino farmers. We are government employees and we swore an oath—to give service and not ask service. When in doubt, ask yourself if it is for the benefit of the farmers so that our purpose in Department may be served.” ended Bautista

The agriculture officers in unison accepted the challenge of RTD Bautista.

The Province of Aurora is composed of eight municipalites: Baler, Casiguran, Dilasag, Dinalungan, Dingalan, Dipaculao, Maria Aurora, and San Luis.##