The Binhi e-Padala system of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund’s (RCEF) seed program has improved the linkage between seed growers and farmers.

Jett Yver Yamzo, chairperson of the Pampanga Seed Growers Multipurpose Cooperative (PSGMPC) said on Monday that aside from faster and more convenient delivery of certified inbred seeds, the Binhi e-Padala system provides a venue for farmers and seed growers to discuss concerns and issues on rice seeds.

“Dahil sa Binhi e-Padala, nagkakaroon kami ng pagkakataon na makipag-usap ng direkta sa mga magsasaka, lalo na kung may mga tanong sila sa tungkol sa katangian ng binhi, sa peste, at iba pa. Dahil dito, mas inspirado ang mga seed growers na magproduce ng dekalidad na binhi at pagbutihin ang mga ginagawa. Mas lalo ring lumalakas ang market namin (Because of Binhi e-Padala, we have an opportunity to the talk to the farmers directly, especially if they have queries regarding the types of seeds, pests among others. Because of this, the seed growers are more inspired to produce quality seeds and improve what they are doing. Our marketing likewise improve),” Yamzo said in a statement.

The Binhi e-Padala System is a digitally-aided distribution mechanism launched in 2020.

Under this system, qualified beneficiaries receive a claim code via text message, and they present it when receiving seeds.

The system was proven effective in cutting lines during seed distribution and hastened financial transactions between DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and its partner-seed growers.

“Sana ay magpatuloy ang RCEF seed program dahil malaking tulong ito sa ating mga magsasaka (Hopefully, the RCEF seed program will continue because it is big help to our farmers),” Yamzo said.

The RCEF seed program is a component of Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law, which allocates PHP3 billion in funds every year to develop, propagate and promote high-quality rice seeds and help improve the competitiveness of rice farmers. (PNA)