VIRAC, Catanduanes (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has turned over P584,000 worth of portable solar dryers to rice farmers in the towns of Gigmoto and San Andres in this island province on April 15.
DOST Provincial Science and Technology Officer Marie Grace Molina said that a significant number of agrarian reform beneficiaries from Biong Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Gigmoto and Bislig-Cabcab Multi-Purpose Cooperative in San Andres will benefit from the solar dryers.
Each cooperative received eight portable solar dryers.
These solar dryers are designed to reduce the moisture content of large produce volumes and can accommodate 150 kilos of palay per drying.
They are stackable sets of grain thermal drying trays that are clean and space-efficient.
"The dryers are designed to help farmers dry their grains more efficiently and quickly, even on cloudy days. By using this device, farmers can avoid wasting time and resources on drying their harvest season after season on the pavement using traditional methods," Molina said.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by representatives of the DOST, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and the two cooperatives.
Representatives of DAR, DOST, Biong MPC and BISCAP MPC sign the memorandum of understanding for the turnover of portable solar dryers on April 15, 2024 at DAR office in Virac, Catanduanes. (EABagadiong)
The MOU involves DOST funding of P584,000 for the purchase of sun drying trays.
DAR, on the other hand, will provide logistical support and train farmer-members of the two cooperatives.
While, the cooperatives will formulate an operating policy and guidelines on the use, access and overall operation of portable solar dryers.
The distribution of portable drying equipment is part of the DOST's Community Empowerment through Science and Technology program, which aims to support initiatives focused on improving the standard of living for rural communities. (PIA 5/Catanduanes)
