DA outlines interventions to replace seed subsidy
The Department of Agriculture, with the abolition of seed subsidy, will shift its support to eight other interventions with more long-term and impact on farmers’ productivity and incomes.
Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said, in a recent memorandum to all DA regional directors, and heads of bureaus and attached agencies, the shift is in support to the DA’s Agri Pinoy program geared at attaining rice self-sufficiency by 2013.
The remaining seed subsidy for 2010 worth P1.3 billion will be spent on eight other interventions. The bulk will be spent on irrigation, particularly in the repair and rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems through the DA National Irrigation Administration in partnership with local government units through counterparting scheme or public-private partnership.
The DA’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management will also construct more small-scale irrigation projects, he added.
Another intervention is post-harvest, wherein the DA through its two agencies – Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization and Philippine Rice Research Institute – will strengthen efforts to help modernize the country’s rice milling industry by tapping financial resources through the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.
Appropriate drying facilities such as “solar dryers” or multi-purpose drying pavements will be provided to organized farmers’ groups and LGUs to reduce post-harvest losses.
Another is seed production assistance with the Bureau of Plant Industry providing seed storage facilities to ensure availability of quality seeds in partnership with accredited seed growers. The BPI will put up new seed laboratories nationwide to facilitate certification and testing of rice, corn and vegetable seeds, and planting materials.
Also there is the organic fertilizer assistance, where the DA-BSWM in coordination with the DA regional field units will continue to establish composting facilities;
Included as well is research and development, where the DA-PhilRice in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute and other plant breeding institutions will continue the development of new as well as improvement of existing rice varieties, and other productivity-enhancing technologies. The new rice varieties should withstand adverse effects of climate change and resistant to emerging pests and diseases.
Extension, education and training support will also be included with the Agricultural Training Institute in coordination with the regional field units and other concerned agencies will further strengthen the promotion and dissemination of existing and new technologies to farmers through the LGUs.
Lastly, production loan will also be provided through the Agricultural Credit and Policy Council that will continue to partner with the Land Bank of the Philippines and other government financial institutions to provide more farmers accessible and affordable credit.*
