April 12, 2024

Philippine agriculture office unveils 50-hectare corn model farm in La Union province

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture Region 1 (Ilocos Region) office, through its Corn Banner Program, recently showcased a 50-hectare corn model farm during a field day at Luzong Sur village in Bangar town, La Union province, on April 4.

The event was organised by the DA Region 1 office in collaboration with the local government unit of Bangar, farmers and Bayer Crop Science.

The 50-Hectare Corn Model Farm is one of the two farm sites along with Cadapli village in Bangar that unveils the use of hybrid yellow corn. The use of this corn variety has resulted in a 26% increase in yields compared to previous corn production levels in the area.

The DA Region 1 office recommended to farmers the use of the Nutrient Expert for Maize Philippines (NEMPh), a software for crop advisors that provides fertiliser recommendation. The utilisation of NEMph aims to increase the yield of corn to one metric ton per hectare and ensure efficient fertiliser management of corn.

During the field day, it was shown that although the yellow corn hybrid may cost more upfront, the yields of the model farm give more profits with a gross income of ₱134,475 (US$2,380) or higher than the ₱120,120 (US$2,126) per hectare for using other corn varieties.

The DA Region 1 office aims to continue improving Ilocos Region's corn production by giving way to programs such as model farms "to help farmer-beneficiaries in maximising yield and minimising loss".

The Ilocos Region is the second-top producer of corn in the Philippines.

- The Manila Times