Koronadal City, South Cotabato -Strengthened unity and a clear, coordinated direction among government agencies and stake holders in the agriculture sector are being pushed as vital solutions to reduce the price of rice and make it more affordable for every household in the province.
Raul Teves, Provincial Agriculturist, emphasized that achieving lower rice prices is not an impossible goal.
According to Teves, the key lies in consolidating efforts across various government agencies and ensuring that programs are aligned toward a common objective.
“Unity and one direction will make a significant difference,” Teves said, stressing that fragmented efforts and overlapping initiatives often slow down progress in the agriculture sector.
He explained that when national agencies, local government units, farmers’ groups, and private stakeholders work in close coordination, efficiency improves across the entire food supply chain from production to distribution.
Teves underscored the importance of smooth coordination among agencies involved in rice production, post-harvest handling, logistics, and market monitoring.
He noted that price increases are often influenced not only by production levels but also by transportation costs, storage inefficiencies, and market disruptions.
By aligning government programs with the actual needs of farmers and market realities, the province aims to stabilize supply and prevent unnecessary price spikes.
“If we have a clear direction and everyone is moving toward the same goal, we can control production costs and ensure that rice reaches consumers at a fair price,” he added.
The Provincial Agriculturist’s Office has been working to harmonize initiatives such as seed distribution, irrigation support, mechanization assistance, and technical training.
“These interventions are designed to boost productivity while lowering the cost of cultivation,” he explained.
Central to the strategy of reducing rice prices is providing stronger and more sustained support to farmers. Teves emphasized that farmers must be equipped with the tools, knowledge, and financial backing necessary to increase yields without incurring excessive expenses.
Support measures include access to high-quality seeds, modern farm machinery, soil analysis services, and training in climate-resilient farming techniques. Reducing input costs such as fertilizers, fuel, and labor can directly lower the overall cost of production, which ultimately influences retail prices.
He also highlighted the importance of improving post-harvest facilities to minimize losses. Investments in drying facilities, storage warehouses, and milling equipment can help preserve grain quality and reduce wastage, ensuring that more rice reaches the market.
The push for unity and coordinated action aligns with the broader agricultural agenda of Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., Governor of South Cotabato.
The governor’s administration has consistently prioritized strengthening the agricultural sector as a foundation for inclusive economic growth and long-term food security.
Under the provincial government’s development framework, agriculture remains a top priority, with programs focused on increasing farm productivity, enhancing rural infrastructure, and expanding market access for local producers.
Governor Tamayo’s advocacy centers on ensuring that South Cotabato remains self-sufficient in staple food production while keeping prices stable for consumers. The administration believes that food security is not only about adequate supply but also about affordability and accessibility for every South Cotabateño family.
Teves reiterated that sustainable reductions in rice prices will not happen overnight but can be achieved through consistent, collective effort.
He said it takes a whole-of-government and whole-of-community approach.
“When we are united and guided by one direction, we can make rice more affordable while safeguarding the welfare of our farmers.”
Ultimately, the province’s vision is clear: protect the livelihoods of those who grow the food while ensuring that every family has access to affordable, quality rice.
Through unity and one direction, South Cotabato aims to build a more resilient and food-secure future for all.
