December 16, 2024

Ilocos Region, Philippines sees boost in corn production despite weather challenges

Corn production in the Ilocos Region, Philippines, rose in the third quarter of 2024, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

This growth was achieved despite the weather disturbances that affected agricultural activities.

Corn production in the region saw even more substantial growth. The total yield for the first nine months of the year was 8,422.4 metric tonnes, an 18.14 percent increase from 7,129.1 metric tonnes during the same period in 2023.

Ilocos Norte more than doubled its corn output, producing 1,066.6 metric tonnes compared to 529.61 metric tonnes last year. Ilocos Sur also saw a rise, with production increasing from 2,456 metric tonnes to 3,234 metric tonnes. La Union recorded a slight increase to 737.79 metric tonnes from 723.54 metric tonnes. Pangasinan experienced a small decline in corn production, with output dropping to 3,384 metric tonnes from 3,420 metric tonnes.

The harvested corn area in the region expanded from 1,678 hectares in 2023 to 1,843 hectares in 2024, contributing to the production gains.

Jinnefer Pulamo, a project evaluation officer from the Department of Agriculture (DA), stated that the Ilocos Region remains self-sufficient in corn production. She highlighted the DA's efforts in maintaining buffer stock and providing various interventions to support farmers.

-      Philippine News Agency