South Cotabato, Philippines – The Provincial Government, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, continues to strengthen its Consolidated Rice Farming Program as harvest operations and farm support initiatives advance across key agricultural areas in South Cotabato.
In Barangay Dajay, Surallah, the harvesting operation of the Unified Valley Agriculture Cooperative (UVACO) is currently ongoing. Nearly 200 hectares of consolidated rice farms are targeted for completion within November and December, ensuring the timely harvest of clustered production areas. To support the operation, the province has deployed two units of harvesters to help accelerate the process and reduce post-harvest losses.
According to Jeffrey Cocjin, Agriculturist I, the ongoing interventions demonstrate the province’s commitment to ensuring efficient and cost-effective rice production.
“These harvest operations are crucial in helping our farmers reduce expenses and increase their yield. By providing machines and technical support, we ensure that the entire consolidated area benefits from modern and synchronized farm practices,” Cocjin emphasized.
Meanwhile, in Norala, the Samahang Walang Iwanan Sa Agrikultura Cooperative (SWISACO) association continues to receive comprehensive production support. A total of 80 farmers have already been provided with hybrid rice seeds and fertilizers intended for the second cropping cycle of 2025. Cocjin highlighted that these inputs play a vital role in sustaining farmer productivity.
To further enhance planting operations, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist also deployed two units of mechanical transplanters in Norala. These machines are expected to significantly speed up planting activities and promote uniform crop establishment.
“Introducing mechanical transplanters helps reduce labor costs and ensures better crop stand. This technology is especially important as we push for wider adoption of modern, climate-resilient farming practices,” Cocjin said.
These initiatives form part of South Cotabato’s ongoing efforts to enhance rice productivity, reduce production costs, and strengthen food security across the province.
