BALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental (PIA) – The first rice processing system in Misamis Oriental officially opened in Barangay San Isidro, Balingasag. The state-of-the-art facility, worth P70 million, aims to support local rice farmers.
The multi-stage rice mill processes 2-3 tons per hour and features advanced equipment, including a pre-cleaner, de-stoner, huller, mist polisher, length grader, color sorter, blending tank, automatic packing machine, rice hull bin, dust collection system, and an air-conditioned control room.
Additionally, the facility includes four recirculating dryers valued at over P16 million.
The project stems from the Rice Competitiveness and Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program, implemented by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) under the Rice Tariffication Law (RA 11203).
Governor Peter Unabia pushed for this facility to improve farmers’ productivity and livelihood.
The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental, PHilMech, and First Community Cooperative (FICCO), with support from the Provincial Agriculture Office, made this project possible. Gov. Unabia led the inauguration alongside PHilMech Mindanao A Cluster Head Engr. Edgar Testa, FICCO CEO Edgardo Micayabas, Senator Cynthia Villar’s representative Ms. Edna Jangao, and other guests.
This initiative aligns with the SDPI Program and Gov. Unabia’s PAGLAUM Development Agenda, focusing on “A” for Agriculture Development to combat poverty. (Misamis Oriental Provincial Information Office/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)
