By Othel V. Campos

The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) has deployed 151 rice processing systems under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Mechanization Program 2.0, with 132 units already operational and 19 more expected by the end of 2026.

This aims to modernize the local agricultural sector by providing farmer cooperatives with integrated facilities that include modern mills, dryers and storage units. PhilMech director IV Dionisio Alvindia said the program allows farmers to move up the value chain by milling their own harvest and selling directly to wholesalers and retailers rather than relying on middle traders.

Farmer groups in Nueva Ecija reported significant improvements in income and reduced operational risks. Alvindia said the new systems offer a milling recovery rate approximately seven percent higher than traditional methods, which helps protect farmer margins during periods of high fuel costs.

“The program of President Bongbong Marcos for farmers across the Philippines is truly excellent. It has greatly helped ease problems such as farm expenses, since most of these are provided free. We have experienced significant improvements since we were given the RPS,” said Bantug Agricultural MPC Talavera general-manager Nora Angeles.

Angeles said the facility allows her group to purchase palay at higher prices and sell milled rice nationwide. Other organizations, such as the Caridad Sur MPC in Llanera and the Cooperative Enterprise for True Economic Reform in Guimba, also cited the systems for creating new revenue streams and reducing trading losses.

The RCEF Mechanization Program has reached about 1.2 million rice farmers across the country. By providing end-to-end support from land preparation to storage, the government seeks to ensure a stable rice supply and better price management for both producers and consumers.

Published Date: March 30, 2026