Balingasag, Misamis Oriental---The heat is on as the first leg of the Information Caravan series for Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) is off to a good start!

With 200 target participants, an enthusiastic response of 246 farmers and Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from Balingasag, Magsaysay, Jasaan, Claveria and Alubijid came for the aforementioned event.

The activity was opened by ATI-RTC X OIC-Center Director Maria Lydia A. Echavez. She gave a short overview of the activity, emphasizing the importance of knowing the opportunities and benefits that the program offers.

In her welcome message, Balingasag Municipal Agriculturist Emma Mufar thanked the participants for coming to the gathering, and encouraged them to avail of the opportunities that are given to farmers. “Rice today is given more attention by the government. A lot of funds are poured into the program, which is not in other crops. So we have to be thankful and do our part so that the program will be successful for our own benefit”, Ms. Mufar said.

The information caravan aims to make the farmers aware of the Rice Tariffication Law, the funds that are allocated through RCEF, and the privileges and benefits that the farmers can avail, as well as to assist them to become competitive in the world market. The four key programs of RCEF include (1.) Rice farm machinery and equipment; 2. Rice seed development, propagation, and promotion; 3. Expanded rice credit assistance; and 4. Rice extension services.

Representatives from the different involved agencies were also present to discuss their individual programs. From Philmec, Mr. Danilo A. Briones; PhilRice,Mr. Hilario A. Yonson, Jr.; from BPI, Ms. Rhea Connie L. Coopera-Villas; and from TESDA, Mr. Jerome V. Manriquez

The Info Caravan transpired yesterday October 21, 2019 at the Lianem Inn, Barangay Waterfall, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. (with reports from Vic Thor A. Palarca, Media Production Specialist-II)