President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday inspected a newly completed P94.8-million rice processing facility in Hamtic, Antique, as part of the government’s drive to modernize agriculture and increase farmers’ incomes.
The facility, operated by the Hamtic Multi-Purpose Cooperative, was built by the Department of Agriculture through PhilMech and funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund. It aims to reduce post-harvest losses, improve rice quality, and help farmers get better prices for their produce.
The rice hub includes a modern rice mill that can process two to three tons per hour, mechanical dryers, a warehouse, and support equipment such as a hauling truck, forklift, weighing scale, and moisture meter.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the project will help rice farmers in Antique become more productive while supporting the government’s food security goals.
During the visit, the government also distributed assistance to farmers and fisherfolk across the province. Rice farmers received financial aid and crop insurance claim checks to help them recover from weather-related losses.
Fisherfolk were given fiberglass boats with engines, while farmer groups received farm machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters. Support was also extended to livestock and poultry raisers through multiplier farms, and several cooperatives received solar power systems to help lower energy costs.
Officials said the combined support—from production and post-harvest facilities to machinery and renewable energy—aims to make farming in Antique more resilient, efficient, and profitable.
