Palay production in the first quarter of 2025 is expected to reach 4.72 million metric tons, with higher yields offsetting a decrease in rice planting area, according to the latest estimate of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of a P278.3-million grains terminal and trading station in Batangas City, marking a pivotal moment for the agricultural sector. The facility aims to reduce the cost of animal feeds by consolidating the supply of corn, which in turn is expected to lower the prices of poultry and livestock products, particularly in the Southern Tagalog region.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is in discussions with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for a potential partnership to fund a nationwide rice infrastructure project.
In a groundbreaking move, the municipality of San Mateo has passed an ordinance aimed at ensuring the availability of safer, higher-quality rice for its residents. The ordinance, approved by the local government and supported by the Department of Agriculture through the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), sets a precedent for the country in rice quality assurance.
The National Food Authority (NFA) on Monday announced a P10 billion modernization initiative aimed at enhancing the country's rice storage and milling capabilities. The program, funded via government allocation, seeks to increase storage capacity, improve rice milling processes, and support farmer profitability.