June 24, 2024

Cagayan Valley top corn producer in the Philippines

Cagayan Valley remains the leading producer of corn in the Philippines, according to the Department of Agriculture-Region 2 (DA-2), Philippine Information Agency reported.

Regional Executive Director Rose Mary G Aquino reported that in 2023, the region harvested over two million metric tonnes of corn, accounting for 23% of the national production.

Through the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal, the agriculture department has supplied an average of 488,952 kg of vegetables daily to various regions, including the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Cagayan Valley, Ilocos, Calabarzon, and Cordillera.

In fisheries, the region is noted for export-quality shrimp, crabs, and other rare species, particularly from DATAJ Aquatic Farm in Sta. Teresita and the town of Buguey, both in Cagayan.

"These achievements are due to continuous support provided to farmers through quality seeds, fertilisers, and other agricultural interventions, the expansion of irrigation networks, agricultural infrastructure, marketing, and farmer training on advanced technologies and smart agriculture," Aquino stated.

Aquino noted that a total of PHP 7.3 billion (US$124 million) was disbursed for the implementation of priority commodity programmes, and services, including corn, high-value crops, livestock, organic agriculture, the Halal Food Industry Development Programme, market development, an integrated laboratory, research for development, and regulatory services.

In addition to regular funds, there are other programmes and special projects aimed at addressing important issues and concerns of farmer-fisher beneficiaries and stakeholders, such as the Philippine Rural Development Project at the Special Area for Agricultural Development.

The agriculture department is also encouraging farmers to join Farmers Cooperatives and Associations to protect their rights and interests, freely practice their knowledge and skills, and increase their yield and income.

-      Philippine Information Agency