President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently took part in a momentous event that showcased the future of rice harvesting in the Philippines. Leading the ceremonial rice harvesting at Mandili, Candaba, Pampanga, President Marcos Jr. demonstrated the use of a revolutionary machine called the Rice Combine Harvester (RCH).
The RCH is a mobile rice harvesting machine that combines several operations into one efficient process. It can harvest, thresh, clean, and bag the rice all in one operation, making it a game-changer for farmers across the country. This innovative technology is climate change resilient and specifically designed to suit local conditions.
One of the key advantages of the RCH is its ability to save time. With the capacity to operate on up to 3 hectares per day, it significantly reduces the time and effort required for harvesting. This means that farmers can cover more land and increase their productivity, ultimately leading to higher yields.
Aside from time savings, the RCH also requires less labor compared to manual harvesting methods. This is a crucial benefit, especially in a time when labor shortages are becoming more common in the agricultural sector. By utilizing the RCH, farmers can streamline their operations and maximize efficiency.
Another significant advantage of the RCH is its potential to minimize postharvest losses. Manual harvesting often results in a certain amount of wastage due to mishandling or inefficient techniques. However, with the RCH’s advanced technology and precise harvesting process, farmers can expect lower postharvest losses, ultimately increasing their profitability.
The ceremonial rice harvesting event on February 3 was attended by key figures in the Department of Agriculture (DA), including Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro, Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa, and DA III OIC-Regional Executive Director Dr. Eduardo L. Lapuz Jr. Their presence underscores the government’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions that can drive progress in the agricultural sector.
President Marcos Jr.’s active involvement in the ceremonial rice harvesting highlights his dedication to modernizing and improving the country’s agricultural practices. By embracing technology like the RCH, the government aims to empower farmers and enhance their livelihoods, ultimately contributing to the overall development and growth of the nation.
The successful implementation of the RCH in Mandili, Candaba, Pampanga serves as a shining example of how innovative solutions can revolutionize traditional practices. As the RCH becomes more widely adopted, it has the potential to transform the rice harvesting landscape in the Philippines, making it more efficient, sustainable, and profitable for farmers.
With President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the forefront of this movement, the future of rice harvesting in the Philippines looks promising. Through continued support and investment in innovative technologies, the government and agricultural sector can work hand in hand to build a brighter and more prosperous future for Filipino farmers.
Source: www.da.gov.ph
