By Rowena Cruz Some of the brand-new 4-wheel tractors ready to be distributed to Quezon farmers' associations. (Photo from Quezon PIO) ...
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| Some of the brand-new 4-wheel tractors ready to be distributed to Quezon farmers' associations. (Photo from Quezon PIO) |
Lucena City, Quezon – The Rice Tariffication Law is proving its benefits to local farmers with the distribution of new machinery to fourteen farmers' associations in Quezon province yesterday, October 21, 2024 at the Quezon Convention Center.
Twelve 4-wheel tractors and nine rice combine harvesters were provided through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the RCEF Mechanization Component. This program utilizes funds generated from tariffs on imported rice to invest in local farmers and enhance their productivity.
"This equipment represents a significant investment in the future of our rice farmers," said Engr. May Ville Castro, Chief of the PhilMech Facility Management and Field Operations Division, who spoke on behalf of PhilMech Director IV Dr. Dionisio Alvindia. "By providing access to modern technology, we are empowering them to increase their efficiency and yields, ultimately contributing to a more robust and competitive rice industry in the Philippines."
Castro also stressed the importance of continuous support and innovation in agriculture. "To ensure sustainable growth and food security for the country, we must continue to invest in our farmers and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive," she emphasized. "PhilMech remains committed to supporting farmers through research, development, and technology transfer initiatives to help them adapt to the changing agricultural landscape."
John Oliver Sarmiento, representing DA IV-A Regional Director Fidel Libao from the Agricultural Program Coordinating Office (APCO) in Quezon, added, "The Rice Tariffication Law is not just about generating revenue; it's about reinvesting those funds to directly support our farmers. This distribution of machinery is a tangible example of how the law is working to uplift the lives of those who work tirelessly to feed our nation."
Sarmiento further explained the key aspects of the Rice Tariffication Law (Republic Act No. 11203), which replaced the previous system of import quotas with tariffs. "This law allows for the free importation of rice while imposing a 35% tariff on imports from Southeast Asian countries," he noted. "The tariffs collected are then channeled into the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to support our local farmers through programs like this mechanization initiative, as well as initiatives focused on seed development, propagation, and extension services."
On the other hand, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Liza Mariano also expressed her optimism about the impact of the new machinery. "This will truly make a difference in the lives of our farmers," she stated. "With these modern tools, they can optimize their operations, reduce their labor costs, and improve their overall income."
"This initiative highlights the commitment to supporting local rice farmers through the Rice Tariffication Law (Republic Act No. 11203). By investing in modern equipment and technology, the program aims to boost the competitiveness of Filipino farmers in the face of imported rice." she added.
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