By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reassured the public of an adequate rice supply despite the El Niño phenomenon, alleviating concerns about shortages.
“When it comes to rice, our supply is sufficient. People need not worry. In fact, in areas with irrigation, our yield has even increased, in terms of tons per hectare,” Marcos stated.
“However, there are still challenges. For instance, only about 50 percent of lands are irrigated, leaving others struggling. In Occidental Mindoro, we estimate that only one percent of irrigated lands are affected by El Niño and require assistance,” he added.
The President highlighted the National Irrigation Administration’s (NIA) efforts to expand irrigation coverage, enabling farmers to cultivate crops, particularly rice, even during droughts.
“We’ve provided a lot, including post-harvest facilities. Instead of transporting paddy to distant locations for milling, we’re establishing facilities locally, ensuring farmers earn more,” he emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)
