Nine Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) – assisted agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in Camarines Sur have received nine portable solar drying equipment from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) worth PHP328,500.

In an interview on Thursday, DAR Camarines Sur II agrarian reform program officer Julie Ann Barcelon said the Portable Solar Dryer-Grains Thermal Drying Trays (Portasol-GTDT) will help the farmers improve their drying to maintain the quality of rice and other food products.

“Five units of the portasols worth PHP36,500 each were already distributed on June 26, while the other four units will be distributed Friday. These portasols were part of DOST’s Grant-in-Aid Program,” Barcelon said.

She said the solar dryers can dry up to 150 kilos of rice daily, lowering moisture content to safe storage levels.

“This will increase farmers’ incomes through improved quality and reduced losses,” she said.

The nine recipients were involved in rice production and food processing businesses in the province.

Barcelon said the portable dryers will serve as an alternative to traditional sun-drying methods, maintaining quality while protecting products from contamination.

The ARBO recipients included Alyansa ng Magbubukid sa Tinawagan Multipurpose Cooperative, San Antonio Agrarian Reform Organization, Vegetable Growers Association of ARB Libod-Tinawagan, and Pacol Magsasaka Prime Community.

Also included were Sta. Cruz Farmers-Farmworkers Association, Sto. Niño Pili Vegetable Grower Association, Caanduyog Agriculture Cooperative, Siembre Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization Incorporated, and Balaton Farmers and Fisherfolks Organization.

Barcelon said the distribution of portable solar dryers highlights DOST’s commitment to improving standards of living for rural communities, not only in Camarines Sur, but across the region.

“The agency continues to support initiatives that help smallholder farmers increase productivity, quality, and income,” she said.

Renato Bequillo, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II, said their commitment to the ARBOs does not end with land distribution.

“We understand the importance of post-land distribution support services, and these solar drying trays represent our ongoing efforts to ensure that farmers have the necessary equipment to remain productive and competitive,” he said in a statement. (PNA)