BALANGA CITY (PIA) — Two farmer groups in Abucay, Bataan received brown rice processing technologies that are expected to enhance their productivity, reduce production costs, and improve market access for locally produced rice.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally turned over the Certificate of Ownership for a Compact Impeller Brown Rice Mill and a Vacuum Packaging Machine to the Organic Farmers’ Association of Abucay and the Capitangan Organic Farmers’ and Marketing Cooperative.
Under the project “Expanded Implementation of Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) for Abucay, Bataan – Compact Impeller Brown Rice Mill and Vacuum Packaging Machine,” the technologies enable the farmer-beneficiaries to process and package their own brown rice products, allowing them to supply customers within the province and in Manila.
In-house processing allows the groups to eliminate outsourcing, significantly reducing transportation and other production costs.
Through the CEST program, grassroots communities are provided with science-based solutions that address local needs while strengthening livelihood opportunities.
In Abucay, the project helps organic rice farmers add value to their produce while improving efficiency and product quality.
DOST Provincial Science and Technology Director Catalina De Leon-Cruz said the transfer of ownership goes beyond the turnover of equipment and reflects the agency’s commitment to building the long-term capacity of farmer groups.
“It represents an investment in the farmers’ capacity to modernize rice production and lead local agricultural development through technology,” she said.
De Leon-Cruz added that empowering farmers through science and technology contributes to sustainable agricultural growth and inclusive economic development at the community level.
DOST remains committed to supporting Abucay’s farmers as they continue to drive agricultural innovation and sustainable economic growth through the effective use of science-based solutions. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)
