The promise of modern mechanization reached Bohol’s farmlands as the Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), turned over 45 units of agricultural machinery and equipment to farmers’ cooperatives and associations across the province.
The ceremonial awarding at San Jose, Talibon, gathered national and local officials, farmers’ representatives, and members of the beneficiary groups.
A total of 34 farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs) from 16 municipalities received the machinery, collectively valued at around Php 101.8 million.
This turnover forms part of the 2025 allocation under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program, a nationwide initiative designed to boost rice farmers’ productivity and competitiveness.
The program seeks to cut production costs by P2 to P3 per kilo of rice, reduce postharvest losses by up to five percent, and ease the burden of manual labor in the fields.
By introducing modern technologies to the countryside, the program seeks to cut production costs by P2 to P3 per kilo of rice, reduce postharvest losses by up to five percent, and ease the burden of manual labor in the fields.
Governor Aris Aumentado, represented by Florencio Flores Jr., emphasized the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting farmers.
Aumentado assured that the government remains responsive to the needs of the agricultural sector, recognizing that farmers play a central role in Bohol’s food security and rural development.
“Responsible use and maintenance will allow the units to serve more farmers for a longer time.
In his message, DA’s RTD Cirilo Namoc reminded the recipients to take proper care of the machinery, noting that responsible use and maintenance will allow the units to serve more farmers for a longer time.
PhilMech’s Engr. Geliane Promentera highlighted the importance of collaboration between agencies and communities.
Promentera stressed that through united efforts, the goals of the RCEF Mechanization Program can be fully achieved, ultimately raising the competitiveness of local farmers.
Talibon Mayor Janette Garcia also joined the program.
