Nueva Ecija’s rice fields are filled with a spirit of optimism and joy as the rainy season begins this year.
Fernando Salvador, Chairman of Binabuyan Farmers Association from Barangay Pinili, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija, stated that unprocessed rice grain, known as “fresh palay,” typically commands a price of Php 20 per kilogram.
“Ngayong rainy season inbred po ang tinanim ko at naabot po namin ang mas mataas na ani dahil sa mga ginagawa naming pag-aalaga sa aming mga palay ay talaga namang umabot ng higit sa isang daan (cavan) ang aming ani,” Salvador shared.
He also highlighted that the Department of Agriculture’s effective interventions in support of rice farmers have played a significant role in boosting their income.
In a heartfelt message, Salvador conveys his profound gratitude for the tireless efforts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in leading the Department of Agriculture.
“Nararamdaman po namin ang pagsusumikap ni PBBM upang tulungan pa kaming mga magsasaka, kung tutuusin sobrang malaking tulong ang mga proyektong kaniyang isinusulong, sana po ay hindi siya magsawang gumabay at bigyang halaga kaming mga nasa pagsasaka,” Salvador said.
He typically grows NSIC Rc 402 during the rainy season and hybrid rice during the dry season. This combination has resulted in the abundant harvest that brings him joy this Wet Season.
Salvador is not the only one succeeding on his farm; his fellow community members are also achieving success in their fields. Their perseverance, adherence to PhilGAP requirements, and readiness to accept agricultural advances led to this group effort.
“Dati sabi nila magsasaka lang kami ng dayami pero ngayon kami ay magsasaka na umuunlad. Ako bilang magsasaka umangat po ako, tumaas po ang lebel naming mga magsasaka sa ngayon,” Salvador proudly stated.
According to the data of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 3 – Rice Banner Program, the total area planted in Central Luzon covers 457,782.61 hectares for the Wet Season 2023.
Regional Rice Program Focal Person Dr. Lowell Rebillaco stated that as of October 6, a total of 71,568.06 hectares have been harvested from the planted area. He added that the expected bulk harvesting will be this October and an additional figure in the data will be added once the entire harvest area reaches 100% completion.
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