A fourth class town in the province of Capiz, Dumalag has operationalized a number of interventions to bring its Food on the Table Program further. With the support of its local chief
executive and agriculture leaders, the municipality was able to formulate more comprehensive programs and projects which are systematized, financially supported, and properly implemented for the benefit of its farmers. The ultimate goal is to have fruitful harvest at the end of each cropping
season.

Dumalag has a total corn area of around 1,150 hectares. Of these, 978 hectares are planted with yellow corn and the remaining area is being utilized for white corn. Also, local farmers are organized in six corn clusters in the area, composed of two associations and one cooperative.

However, the corn industry in the municipality has faced many challenges. Among these are low yield per unit and high cost of production, high level of aflatoxin levels, inadequate production and post-harvest facilities and equipment, lack of financing institution to cater to the production needs of the farmers, and lack of credit facilities. Dumalag is also not exempted from the destructive effects of climate change.

Amidst these challenges, all of its corn clusters are working hard to improve the industry. They are actively participating in and conducting training programs related to corn production. The municipal government was also able to acquire production and post-harvest machineries and facilities for its farmers. Likewise, the municipal Farmers’ Information and Technology Services Center was improved for better learning and knowledge-sharing experience. Through their efforts,
Dumalag was able to attain over nine percent yield increase since 2015.

To further develop its corn industry, Dumalag developed its 2018-2023 Corn Roadmap with the goal of producing quality and low-cost yellow corn for food and feeds. Among its objectives are to increase yield and area planted, produce good quality corn grains, and increase farmers’ income
through value-adding and entrepreneurial craftsmanship.

With these endeavors, Dumalag has won twice in the National Quality Corn Achievers Awards in 2018 and 2019. Indeed, all their hard work has paid off and, with its farmers’ continued efforts, a resilient corn industry in Dumalag is possible.