To help farmers cope with the delayed and limited rainfall this wet season, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte has stepped up its efforts in promoting the multi-purpose seeder.
Recently introduced in Marcos, Ilocos Norte and Bauang, La Union, 68 farmers who are transitioning from transplanting to direct-seeding, have observed the benefits of using the machine.
“Direct-seeding through this machine resulted in visible rows and growth, with plants emerging simultaneously and uniformly. We can also save a lot and plant even with limited water through this machine,” Susana Madayag of Barangay Pugo in Bauang, La Union said.
With the results, Ludivico Bersola, a La Union-based rice coordinator, said that their office plans to procure a multi-purpose seeder to assist rice farmers in crop establishment, especially in rainfed areas.
Direct-seeding is also promoted as this method not only shortens crop maturity by up to a week, but also reduces the exposure of the rice crop to unfavorable weather conditions. (DA-PhilRice, Sonia Pojas)
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