Misamis Occidental inaugurates first-ever rice processing system: free milling and drying services for all farmers

 

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL, June 4, 2025 — In a historic move to boost the income of local farmers and reduce their production costs, the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental officially inaugurated its first state-of-the-art Rice Processing System under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program.

Located in Barangay Santa Cruz, Tangub City, and Barangay Buenavista, Oroquieta City, the newly established facilities mark a historic milestone for the province’s agricultural sector. These modern facilities are now offering free rice milling and drying services to all local farmers, significantly reducing production costs and boosting farmer income.

The project was made possible through the collaboration between the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, led by Governor Henry S. Oaminal, the Department of Agriculture, and its attached agency, PHILMECH.

Each facility features a multi-stage rice mill with a capacity of 1.5 tons per hour, alongside two recirculating mechanical dryers, each capable of drying 6 tons per batch. These advancements are expected to improve post-harvest efficiency, reduce losses, and increase the competitiveness of Misamis Occidental’s rice farmers.

"This is a product of strong collaboration between national and local governments," said Governor Oaminal during the inauguration ceremony. “This facility—funded through the RCEF under President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. and Secretary of Agriculture Francisco ‘Kiko’ Tiu Laurel Jr.—is not only a fulfillment of a promise but a manifestation of genuine service and effective governance.”

The governor also emphasized the importance of local government support, noting that the Provincial Government donated the land and covered the ₱39.4 million construction cost of each building.

This initiative is a core component of the Asenso Rice Farmers Full Assistance Program, aimed at increasing rice productivity and profitability. With reduced operational costs and improved access to processing technology, farmers can now expect higher net incomes and better quality rice products.

“When production increases, so does the Gross Domestic Product. Lower production costs and higher output mean higher income for our farmers. That is progress not only for Misamis Occidental, but for the entire nation,” Governor Oaminal added.

Governor Oaminal initially committed to this project before July 2024 in response to farmers’ long-standing concerns over inadequate drying facilities and high milling expenses. Just 11 months later, the province now boasts two fully operational, government-owned rice processing facilities—a testament to efficient governance and a responsive administration.

All rice farmers in Misamis Occidental can access free drying and milling services, a first in the province’s history. The inauguration serves as a tangible result of the province’s Asenso Misamis Occidental development agenda and its vision for a Malinawon, Malambuon, ug Malipayon (Peaceful, Progressive, and Joyful) community.

This landmark project not only strengthens the agricultural backbone of the province but also positions Misamis Occidental as a model for farmer-focused governance and sustainable rural development. (SN/PGMO)

Governor Henry S. Oaminal leads the inauguration of Misamis Occidental’s first-ever modern Rice Processing System in Brgy. Santa Cruz, Tangub City. (PGMO)

The Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and PHILMECH, inaugurated another RCEF Rice Processing System in Oroquieta City—providing farmers with free use of milling and drying equipment. (PGMO)

New Rice Processing Facility Inaugurated in Oroquieta City to Cut Costs for Local Farmers. (PGMO)