February 8, 2012

 
Philippine government maintains target production for corn

The Philippine Department of Agriculture has maintained its 7.846-million ton target for corn production this year despite lower performance in 2011, citing programs to support production as well as expected better weather conditions.

According to Edilberto M. del Luna, assistant secretary for field operations and national corn program coordinator, while corn output last year of 6.971 million tonnes was lower than the 7.26-million-tonnes goal due to the impact of typhoons that affected harvests, he said the department still believes in a higher yield for the sector.

He added that the government is optimistic to meet the target because of the strategies used for area expansion and yield improvement.

de Luna said the government will use remedial measures that will include providing 150 tractors to cooperatives and local government units (LGU), with each tractor costing PHP1.2 million (US$28,395.59).

The department will also provide 79 postharvest facilities costing PHP3.3 million (US$78,088) each.

de Luna added that the government is also coordinating with the private sector on other areas of support for farmers as well as implementing the changes planting schedule wherein farmers will plant in advance to avoid the October to November typhoon months.

The Bureau of Agricultural Statistics said in a report late last month that corn output is forecast to reach 3.48 million tonnes in the first semester, 5.1% higher than the 3.31 million tonnes in 2011, with more planting expected due to higher demand for corn grits.