Carmela Gersaniba
Photo courtesy: Presidential Communications Office (Facebook)
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. plans to build 147 rice processing centers across the country by the end of year 2025, a move aimed at improving rice production and reducing dependence on imports.
During the inauguration of the Union Water Impounding Dam in Claveria, Cagayan, Marcos said that three of the new centers will be established in the province, where each facility will include drying, milling, and polishing equipment to make post-harvest processing faster and more efficient for farmers.
The President also promised additional support for the agriculture sector, including the distribution of trucks, fertilizer subsidies, and improved rice seed varieties suited for both dry and wet seasons.
“Ang ninanais natin ay hindi na tayo mag-import o kung mag-import tayo, kakaunti na lang, kasi kulang pa ang produksyon dito sa atin,” the President said.
He added that once local production becomes sufficient, the Philippines will have greater control over rice prices without depending on international markets.
A rice warehouse will also be built in Claveria to address logistical challenges and assist in storing harvested palay.
Marcos emphasized that these efforts are part of the government’s push toward rice self-sufficiency, hoping to lessen the country’s reliance on imported grains.
