CAPITOL SEEKS INCREASE IN RICE, CORN PRODUCTION

THE Cebu Provincial Government has set its eyes on improving rice production in the province amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis.

This, as Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia wants to help local farmers affected by the Covid-19 pandemicand make Cebu self-sufficient. Aside from growing rice, Garcia said in a meeting with feedmillers and pork producers on May 26, 2020 that her administration will also focus on improving corn production as the soil in Cebu is conducive for growing such crop.

The governor’s move is part of her Enhanced Countryside Development program.

Provincial Agriculture Officer Roldan Saragena said 63 percent of rice supply in Cebu came from outside the province. Only 37 percent of the rice supply came from Cebu.

He said there are arable lands on Bantayan Island and Camotes Islands, and in northern and southern parts of mainland Cebu.

The governor also ordered an inventory on all Capitol-owned lands that can be used for farming.

To start the improvement on rice and corn production, Land Bank of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines and Philippine Veterans Bank heeded the governor’s request to set aside a common fund for the endeavor. The farmers and businessmen can borrow money from the fund.

If more farmers will plant corn, the Capitol sees no problem for feed millers in getting supplies. Corn is one of the ingredients in making hog feeds.

Garcia said the Provincial Government will make sure the farmers will earn as it will act as their middleman.

The governor will meet with feedmillers again to discuss specifics on corn production, price and signing of an agreement. /