CAPIZ – Seventeen farmers’ associations and one cooperative in Capiz received P75 million worth of farm machinery and equipment under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program Phase 2.0 on Sept. 11.
Implemented by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), the program seeks to boost the productivity and competitiveness of rice farmers nationwide.
The machinery, part of the first tranche of the 2025–2031 program cycle, follows the initial phase of the RCEF, which earlier allotted P450 million to Capiz for farm mechanization.
The 17 beneficiaries come from the following towns: Dumarao, Dumalag, Cuartero, Jamindan, and Dao with two associations each; Mambusao and Panay with three each; and Tapaz with one.
The distributed machinery were 10 rice combine harvesters, six four-wheel tractors with attachments, four village-type rice mills (on-site delivery), and two precision rice seeders (on-site delivery).
Additional farm implements for soil preparation, harvesting, and crop processing were also turned over to the groups.
Gov. Fredenil H. Castro, who led the turnover ceremony, underscored the importance of agricultural modernization in improving farmers’ livelihoods. He was joined by 2nd District Rep. Inday Baby Jane Tan Castro, who pledged continued support for the farming sector.
For his part, PhilMech Director III Joel V. Dator explained the program’s objectives and its projected impact on local productivity. The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, led by OIC Raoul Perez, facilitated the distribution.
The event also drew support from Vice Gov. James Magbanua, Provincial Board members Blesilda Almalbis and Gilbert Ardivilla, as well as mayors and councilors, including Panay’s Mayor Jonathan Besa and Roxas City’s Councilor Gia Potato.
Department of Agriculture Region 6’s representative, Engr. Isreal Barros, likewise attended.
Officials emphasized that the program demonstrates a unified effort to empower farmers with modern tools, sustain agricultural development, and ensure food security in Capiz./PN
