Introduction
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has made a significant call to action for rice farmers in the Visayas region, encouraging them to shift their focus towards corn production. This move is aimed at bolstering the country’s agricultural supply chain, recognizing the increasing demand for corn coupled with the challenges facing rice farming.
Exploring New Cropping Options
During the recent 18th National Corn Congress-Visayas Cluster held in Iloilo City, Milo delos Reyes, director of the DA-National Corn Program, emphasized the importance of diversifying crops. He stated, “We are looking into corn after rice planting,” signaling a potential new direction for local farmers. The proposed cropping method suggests that farmers can plant rice and then follow up with corn, optimizing the use of their land throughout the year.
Current Landscape of Corn Production in the Visayas
Despite being a vital agricultural region, the Visayas has historically low levels of corn production, with the exception of Cebu. Currently, Western Visayas has only 47,000 hectares dedicated to corn farming. This limited area indicates a vast potential for expansion. Dennis Arpia, the DA-6 Regional Director, supports this initiative, noting that corn’s initial growth stages require less water, making it ideal for cultivation during the summer season when irrigation can be a challenge.
Potential of Iloilo Province
Iloilo province has been highlighted as particularly promising for corn cultivation. With its favorable climate and soil conditions, the region could help boost the overall corn supply within the Visayas and contribute substantially to the nation’s agricultural economy. The DA sees a big opportunity for farmers in Iloilo to make this transition successfully.
Encouraging Stakeholder Participation
The congress, which brought together around 500 stakeholders from various regions including Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Negros Island Region, focused on enhancing collaboration and sharing best practices among corn producers. The DA and the Philippine Maize Federation Inc. (PhilMaize) aim to foster a supportive environment where farmers can adopt modern technologies and techniques in corn production. This collaborative effort can significantly enhance productivity and sustainability in the industry.
Modernizing Corn Production
One key takeaway from the congress was the push for wider adoption of innovative technologies in corn farming. Embracing modern agricultural practices can lead to improved yields and better resource management. For instance, the use of drought-resistant corn varieties and precision farming techniques can help farmers adapt to the changing climate and increase their chances of success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Department of Agriculture’s initiative to encourage rice farmers in the Visayas to explore corn production represents a strategic effort to enhance food security and agricultural diversity in the region. By diversifying crops, particularly with the introduction of corn, farmers can potentially increase their income while contributing to the national corn supply. With appropriate support and resources, the Visayas can transform into a more robust agricultural hub for both rice and corn production.
