March 28, 2024

Philippines reports high corn yield amid El Nino challenges

Philippines' President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. announced a significant increase in corn yield despite the ongoing El Nino phenomenon during a meeting held at the Palace with key government officials, Philippine Daily Inquirer reported.

In attendance were National Irrigation Administration (NIA) administrator Eduardo Guillen, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr, and other officials.

Following the meeting, Marcos said the country's rice harvest increased significantly despite the challenges of El Niño, yielding 11 tonnes per hectare, while corn production surged by 5.9%.

During a Palace briefing, Solidum highlighted the likelihood of a prolonged dry season due to the potential La Nina phenomenon. He emphasised the importance of continuing measures such as cloud seeding and monitoring food supplies to support the farming sector.

Solidum elaborated on the Philippines' Department of Agriculture's initiatives, including the implementation of alternate wetting and drying techniques and the use of hybrid rice seeds that require less water. He noted that 60% of the seeds used this year were hybrid rice, contributing to increased yields as they utilise water more efficiently.

Additionally, Solidum mentioned the implementation of quick turnaround strategies, allowing farmers to plant promptly and utilise available soil moisture effectively.

-      Philippine Daily Inquirer