ILOILO City – Farmers in Western Visayas are being encouraged to adopt fuel-saving practices in operating farm tractors as rising fuel prices continue to affect agricultural operations.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) issued the advisory on March 10, 2026, reminding farmers that proper tractor operation and maintenance can reduce fuel consumption by 10 to 20 percent, helping lower production costs amid global oil price volatility linked to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
DA said regular maintenance is essential to keep tractors running efficiently. Farmers were advised to perform routine oil changes and regularly clean air filters, fuel filters, radiators, and radiator screens to maintain engine performance.
The agency also urged operators to use the appropriate gear and maintain a steady engine speed, noting that unnecessary revving or abrupt acceleration can lead to higher fuel consumption and added strain on the equipment.
Farmers were likewise reminded to check tire pressure and avoid overloading, as improper tire inflation and excessive load can cause tractors to consume more fuel.
DA also pointed out the importance of assessing field conditions, especially soil moisture. Operating tractors in overly wet or muddy fields can increase resistance and lead to higher fuel use.
Planning field operations efficiently can also help minimize fuel consumption. According to the agency, farmers should organize their routes in the field to reduce unnecessary back-and-forth movements of tractors.
Selecting the appropriate tractor size and power for specific tasks is also crucial. Using tractors that are too large or too small for the job can result in inefficient fuel use.
The advisory further recommended the use of quality fuel and lubricants, which can help improve engine efficiency and prolong the lifespan of farm machinery.
DA also encouraged the training of tractor operators on fuel-efficient driving techniques to ensure proper machine handling and maximize productivity.
Farmers were also reminded to avoid leaving tractors idling for more than five minutes when not in use, as this practice wastes fuel and increases operating expenses.
The agency said the recommendations aim to help farmers cope with rising fuel costs while ensuring more efficient farm mechanization in the region./PN
