PHilMech’s Rice Processing System (RPS) Team conducted a comprehensive training needs assessment for the three beneficiaries of the drying and milling facilities under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program, held in Pampanga, on June 27, 2023.
 
The team visited the Sta. Ana Multipurpose Cooperative and Guran-Sapa Multipurpose Cooperative located in Sta. Ana, Pampanga. These cooperatives are the beneficiaries of the RPS 1 which is equipped with a 1.5 ton/h multi-stage rice mill and two units of 6-ton recirculating dryers.
 
Moreover, the team also assessed the Cruzian Multipurpose Cooperative based in Magalang, Pampanga. They are one of the few selected beneficiaries of the Php72M worth of RPS 3, which includes three units of mechanical dryers with a 12-ton/batch dual heat source capacity, and a multi-stage rice mill with a capacity of 4-5 ton/h.
 
The purpose of the training needs assessment was to identify the specific requirements and areas for improvement of the cooperatives’ rice processing operations. The results of the team’s evaluation would be helpful in developing training programs that can address the beneficiaries’ unique needs and optimize the utilization of their advanced machinery. (FB, DA-PHilMech)