The Provincial Government of South Cotabato is encouraging small farmers to join consolidated farming to lower costs and boost yields.
Speaking at a press conference at the Provincial Nursery and Demonstration Farm in Banga, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Raul D. Teves stated that the program is specifically designed for smallholders cultivating one to two hectares, who often struggle to recoup their expenses.
Consolidated farming, he explained, covers the entire cycle—from land preparation and processing to harvesting—ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
“It is very important that we have consolidated farming… one variety, one purchase, one entry into the silo,” Teves stressed, describing the goal of streamlining production under a unified system.
(Importante gid nga may ara kita consolidated farming… isa ka variety, isa ka pagbakal, isa ka pagsulod sa silo)
Teves also highlighted the province’s shift toward digital farming, adopting technologies like drone spraying to further reduce production costs.
“We are now moving towards digital farming… so farmers can earn more,” he added.
(Towards digital farming na kita… mas dako ang ila ma-income)
A drone can cover up to 10 hectares in an hour, a task that would take five farmworkers an entire day, reducing labor expenses by around ₱3,000 per hectare.
Using drones reduces water consumption from 200 liters per hectare in manual spraying to just 10 liters, significantly lowering input costs.
By shifting to drone spraying, farmers can save up to 70% on fuel and labor, since a two-man team can complete in just two hours what would otherwise take 10 workers an entire day.
With precise spraying, drones use 30% less pesticide compared to manual methods, saving farmers around ₱1,500 per cropping season per hectare.
The OPAg is working with local governments and farmer groups to broaden the program. The initiative aims to raise incomes and supports South Cotabato’s long-term goal of sustainable agriculture and rural development.
The towns of Norala and Suralah signify their intention to purchase a drone for agricultural use.
