A total of PHP16.4 million worth of hybrid rice seed interventions were distributed to the municipalities of Kapalong and Sto. Tomas in Davao del Norte, the Department of Agriculture-Davao (DA-11) said Wednesday.
In a statement, DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga said the distribution in the two towns happened in April and is currently ongoing in other municipalities.
The intervention covers 3,364 hectares, ensuring 2,250 farmers gain access to high-yielding hybrid rice varieties to maximize output under challenging climate conditions.
Kapalong town received PHP6 million worth of hybrid seeds covering 1,234 hectares and benefiting 830 farmers. Sto. Tomas received a larger allocation of PHP10.4 million for 1,420 farmers, supporting 2,130 hectares of rice areas.
Through the agency’s Rice Program, Gonzaga said the aid aims to boost farmers’ productivity ahead of the wet cropping season.
“Our goal is to ensure that no rice farmer is left behind. By scaling up the use of hybrid rice, we are enabling farmers to achieve higher yields and better returns, especially during the wet season,” he added.
Distribution continues in Davao del Norte: Asuncion on May 5 to 7, B.E. Dujali on May 7 to 8, and Tagum on May 8. (PNA)