Agusan Del Sur

The quality and price of seeds have always been the problem of rice farmers every cropping season. Most if not all times, they only utilize seeds for the next planting out from their produce.

"Certified seeds are now available to farmers at subsidized cost. The seeds will be distributed together with liquid fertilizers for the first cropping season September 16, 2010 to March 15, 2011", revealed OIC-Provincial Agriculturist Armando C. Lagumbay, Sr.

The distribution of certified seeds is under the Rapid Seeds Supply Financing Program (RaSSFIP) Phase 2 which aimed to increase paddy production by farmer-beneficiaries in rain-fed and irrigated areas. It is jointly funded by the Government of the Philippines, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and European Commission (EC).

One sack of certified seeds costs P1,200.00 and is good for one hectare. However, under the program, a farmer will only pay P600.00.

Certified seed is pure, clean, full and uniform in size, and has grown a minimum germination rate of 85%. Its use leads to healthy seedlings that grow faster and uniformly. All this can contribute to 5-20% increase in grain yield. And given other factors available, certified seeds assure better yield for farmers.

The provincial government has been consistent in its effort to help farmers increase income and productivity in order to alleviate their standard of living. It has provided the necessary support and counterpart funds to whatever programs/projects that are implemented in the province. This program is one way to attain its cause.

Gov Adolph Edward "Eddiebong" G. Plaza (right) with Dir. Reinerio B. Belarmino, Jr. (right, behind) of DA 13 turned over the Certified Seeds and Liquid Fertilizers to farmers during the launching of RaSSFiP Phase 2 at Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur on October 5, 2010.

By: Jasmin J. Reyes (Farmcaster - PAgriO)