To promote agricultural modernization, the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization in Caraga Region (PhilMech-13) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA-13) handed over a PHP1.4 million worth of rice precision seeder to an irrigators’ association in Agusan del Sur on Monday.

The recipient group, the Azucena Main Central Irrigators Association Inc. (AZUMCA IA), is composed of 132 rice farmers from Barangay Charito in Bayugan City.

In a statement on Tuesday, the NIA-13 highlighted that the rice precision seeder uses advanced planting technology that guarantees seeds are planted at uniform depths and spacing, leading to better germination, less seed waste, and more consistent crop development.

“The technology significantly reduces labor and planting time compared to traditional manual methods, contributing to higher yields, better grain quality, and more efficient farm management,” the NIA-13 said.

It added that the initiative aligns with the national government’s broader goal of enhancing food security and empowering rural communities through mechanized farming solutions.

In a separate statement, AZUMCA IA president Jhonny Panangin praised the ongoing efforts of the government to connect with various farmers’ organizations and the rollout of programs and projects aimed at increasing farm productivity.

“This intervention is a great help to our farmers. We are committed to maximizing the use of the rice precision seeder starting next cropping season to further improve our productivity,” Panangin said. (PNA)