P59.9-M Rice Processing System II to boost Aklan farmers’ productivity

Aiming to enhance rice farmers’ productivity and efficiency in Aklan, the Php 56.6-million Rice Processing System (RPS) II was officially received by the Provincial Government following its inauguration in Brgy. Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan on February 18. This project, funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), is expected to significantly improve Aklan’s rice industry through modernized postharvest technologies.

With 38,747 farmers cultivating 34,704 hectares of rice fields, the province stands to benefit from modernized postharvest technologies. The RPS II features a Php 53.6-million multi-stage rice mill capable of processing 2-3 tons per hour. The system includes a pre-cleaner, de-stoner, huller, mist polisher, color sorter, length grader, blending tank, and an automated packing system. In addition, two recirculating dryers, each valued at Php 3.1 million, offer a 6-ton per batch drying capacity. These advanced facilities aim to improve milling recovery rates, reduce postharvest losses, and strengthen Aklan’s rice industry, ensuring better income opportunities for local farmers.

During the ceremony, DA-Western Visayas Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia emphasized the province’s untapped agricultural potential despite having the lowest rice yield per hectare in the region. He acknowledged the challenge of improving Aklan’s rice productivity but expressed confidence in the commitment of the provincial government, led by Governor Miraflores, to identify and develop areas with the capacity for higher yields. Arpia stressed that government investments in mechanization must translate into tangible benefits for farmers, ensuring that rice cultivation remains a viable and profitable livelihood.

Recognizing the significance of this facility, Arpia called on stakeholders to actively participate in maximizing its impact. He underscored the importance of adopting improved rice varieties and modern farming practices to break away from the status quo.

“The true battle is not in these facilities but in the fields where our farmers work—this is where we must come together to make real change,” he stated, reaffirming DA’s commitment to supporting Aklan’s rice industry through continuous technological and financial interventions.

Meanwhile, National Rice Program Deputy Director Ralph Alan Ceniza, delivering the message of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., expressed gratitude to the hardworking farmers of Aklan, recognizing their dedication in ensuring food security for Filipino families.

The Agriculture Chief’s message emphasized that RPS II is the government’s way of giving back to farmers, providing them with modern machinery to improve rice production. With this facility, farmers can efficiently dry and process their harvest, ultimately increasing their income and strengthening the province’s rice industry.

During his message, Deputy Director Ceniza also encouraged farmers to maximize the facility not just for rice production but also as an opportunity to establish cooperatives and engage in value-adding activities. He expressed hope that the RPS II would serve as a stepping stone for Aklan farmers to explore higher-value market opportunities and contribute to the country’s long- term food security.

On the other hand, Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores expressed his gratitude to the Department of Agriculture and PhilMech for bringing the Rice Processing System II to Aklan, emphasizing his commitment to providing the best resources for the province’s farmers and agricultural sector. He recognized the critical role of modern facilities in improving agriculture, stating that his administration is dedicated to addressing challenges and ensuring that necessary interventions are in place to support farmers. Prioritizing agriculture remains a key agenda, as he aims to enhance services for farmers and fisherfolk and uplift the entire industry.

“I am personally excited that we have this project because we are now producing high-quality rice aligned with the vision of our President,” Guv Miraflores said. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to strengthening Aklan’s agricultural sector, ensuring that initiatives like this contribute to lasting improvements in productivity and farmers’ livelihoods.

Engr. Raymond Andres, Acting Division Chief of the Facility Management and Field Operations Division of PhilMech, highlighted that this marks the first inauguration of a Rice Processing System (RPS) in Region 6. He underscored that this facility is equipped with modern rice mills and dryers which aims to improve milling recovery rates by 5-7%, based on the results of previously distributed systems. With PhilMech’s budget increasing from P5 billion to P6 billion, more machinery and facilities will be provided to different parts of the country to further boost agricultural productivity.

“We ask only one thing from you—to take care of these facilities and utilize them properly so that more farmers can benefit from this government initiative. When our monitoring team sees that the equipment is well-managed, it increases the possibility of receiving additional support in the future,” Andres said, encouraging cooperatives and associations to apply for the upcoming RCEF 2.0 program.

The inauguration and turnover ceremony was also witnessed by dignitaries such as Vice Governor Atty. Reynaldo Quimpo, Former Governor Florencio Miraflores, 1st District Representative Carlito Marquez represented by Jess Marquez, Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Alexys Apolonio, and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the Province of Aklan, Provincial and Fishery Council Chairperson Arnulfo Magcope, Irrigator Association members headed by Gina Diongson, DA-APCO for the Province of Aklan Ilyn Belinario who graced the event.###

Text by: Myleen S. Subang / Photos by: MSSubang & CFLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6