Giving significance in concluding the Hybrid Rice Cluster Techno-demo event on September 15,2022 in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, Department of Agriculture Senior Undersecretary for Operations, Domingo F. Panganiban paid a visit to the 120 hectares hybrid rice cluster techno-demo site in Brgy. Cabaruan, Bacarra, Ilocos Norte.

In a short walkthrough at the techno demo site, USec Panganiban shared his insights on the utilization of hybrid rice seeds with the private seed companies headed by Mr. Recher Ondap, President of the National Rice Board.

Impressed with the sight of the good standing crop of the hybrid rice varieties at the techno-demo site which are expected to yield about 8-10 metric tons per hectare, Panganiban stressed for the duplication of said techno demo in other areas of the country to attain higher rice production.

He asked the private seed companies to strengthen their technical assistance to farmers in support to the efforts of the local government units to accelerate growth of the rice industry with a higher yield and better production management using the various technologies showcased in the techno demo.

Providing the good Senior USec information on the modern technique to rice planting and fertilizer application, the New Hope Corporation made an exhibition of the drone technology which provides a more efficient method of rice seeding and fertlizer application saving much time and cost compared to the usual fertilization approach using a sprayer.

In his interaction with the farmers, Mr. Rizaldo Laglario, Sr. has requested for a back hoe that would help them repair their irrigation canals and additional farm machineries like a smaller harvester which is more suitable in their area with smaller landholdings in addition to the harvester initially given to the association.

From the techno demo site, Senior Usec and his party proceeded to the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol for a courtesy call and dialogue with Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc.

Prior to his departure, the members of the National Rice Board also made a dialogue with the Secretary to discuss matters relative to having a stronger partnership and linkages between the DA and the private seed companies toward the attainment of Rice Sufficiency in the country.###