Introduction
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is calling on rice farmers in the Visayas to diversify their crops by exploring corn production. This initiative aims to address the rising food supply needs of the Philippines, particularly as the region is traditionally known for its low corn output. The recent 18th National Corn Congress-Visayas Cluster, held from September 23 to 25, highlights the potential benefits of integrating corn cultivation into existing farming practices.
The Need for Diversification
Milo delos Reyes, the director of the DA-National Corn Program, emphasized the dual cropping strategy, stating, “We are looking into corn after rice planting.” This means that farmers can plant rice followed by corn, optimizing land use while addressing food security. This approach not only diversifies income sources for farmers but also helps in efficiently utilizing available agricultural land.
Current Corn Production Landscape
Despite the pressing need for corn, the Visayas region lags behind in production, particularly in areas outside of Cebu. Currently, Western Visayas has only 47,000 hectares dedicated to corn plantations. The DA aims to increase this figure by encouraging farmers to adopt corn production, particularly in regions with limited irrigation resources.
Advantages of Corn Production
One of the significant advantages of switching to corn production is its lower water requirements during the initial stages of growth. DA-6 Regional Director Dennis Arpia pointed out that this makes corn cultivation particularly suitable during the summer season, where water scarcity could hinder rice farming. By introducing corn, farmers can maintain productivity and ensure a continuous supply of crops, even in challenging weather conditions.
Potential for Iloilo Province
Iloilo province holds considerable potential for expanding corn production. With adequate support and resources, local farmers could significantly contribute to the national corn supply, improving food security. This potential was a key topic at the National Corn Congress, where over 500 stakeholders from the corn industry discussed ways to increase production across the region.
Embracing Modern Technologies
The congress, supported by the Philippine Maize Federation Inc. (PhilMaize), also focused on the importance of adopting modern agricultural technologies in corn cultivation. These innovations can enhance yield, reduce labor costs, and increase overall efficiency in farming practices. By implementing cutting-edge techniques, farmers can not only boost their income but also contribute to the sustainability of local agriculture.
Conclusion
The call for Visayan rice farmers to explore corn production represents a significant opportunity for agricultural growth in the region. By adopting a dual cropping system, farmers can improve their livelihoods while contributing to the national food supply. With the support of the DA and advancements in technology, the future of corn production in the Visayas looks promising.
