Antique rice processing hub strengthens farmers’ incomes, boosts food security — DA
MANILA — Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has emphasized that the newly established rice processing system (RPS) in Antique is a vital investment in strengthening both farmer livelihoods and the country’s food security agenda.
The statement followed an inspection led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Tiu Laurel of the PHP94.8-million RPS located in Barangay Poblacion 5, Hamtic, Antique.
According to Tiu Laurel, the RPS operated by the Hamtic Multi-Purpose Cooperative is designed to enhance the productivity and profitability of local rice farmers while supporting the Marcos administration’s drive toward a food-secure Philippines.
“This investment equips our rice farmers in Antique with modern facilities that will help them become more competitive, improve their incomes, and contribute meaningfully to national food security,” Tiu Laurel said.
With the new system in place, farmers are expected to produce higher-quality rice and command better prices in the market. The facility is also projected to increase palay recovery rates, reduce post-harvest losses, and significantly improve milling efficiency.
The RPS features a PHP54.7-million multi-stage rice mill with a processing capacity of two to three tons per hour, two mechanical dryers capable of handling six tons per batch valued at PHP6.18 million, and a PHP25.9-million warehouse and operations building. Additional support equipment includes a hauling truck, forklift, weighing scale, and moisture meter.
Funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, the project was constructed by the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), reinforcing the government’s commitment to modernizing the rice sector and ensuring stable food supply nationwide.
— NPO News Team | PNA-PR
