New Rice Processing Center Opens in Zamboanga Sibugay

Daphne Santuyo

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, April 17, 2026- A major step toward agricultural modernization and food security was highlighted in a post from the official Facebook Page of Governor Ann K. Hofer, detailing the inauguration of the Rice Processing System II facility in Suclema in the Municipality of Ipil on April 15, 2026.

According to the post, Governor Hofer led the inauguration of the facility, which is expected to transform rice production and distribution across the province.

The event gathered key national and local officials, including Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Engr. Christopher V. Morales, Vice Governor Ric-Ric Olegario, Dionisio Alvindia of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), DA Region IX Regional Technical Director Melba Wee, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and Ipil Mayor Ramses Troy D.Olegario.

In her message shared in the post, Gov. Hofer emphasized that the facility represents a long-term investment in the province’s farmers, aiming to improve not only productivity but also profitability. She underscored the need to reposition farmers within the value chain so they can benefit more directly from their work.

“For too long, our farmers have worked tirelessly yet earned the least. This facility is our response—to give them a stronger role in the value chain and ensure that the fruits of their labor truly benefit them,” she said.

The facility, supported by the Department of Agriculture and PhilMech through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Mechanization Program, is equipped with two recirculating mechanical dryers and a rice mill to improve efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses.

The Provincial Government invested nearly ₱75 million for the development of the facility and allocated an additional ₱65 million as initial working capital. This enables the direct purchase of palay from farmers in Titay, Kabasalan, Siay, Imelda, Diplahan, and Alicia at prices at least ₱2 higher than prevailing market rates.

Rice processed through the facility will be sold at ₱4 to ₱5 below market prices through Kadiwa ng Pangulo and other distribution platforms, benefiting local consumers. The initiative also supports the province’s nutrition programs, targeting around 2,500 households with undernourished preschool children and more than 15,000 schoolchildren identified as severely wasted or wasted.

Governor Hofer also reaffirmed her commitment, as reflected in the post, to continue investing in agriculture through strengthened farmer support, improved infrastructure, and expanded market access to ensure inclusive growth across Zamboanga Sibugay.