IBA, Zambales (PIA) -- The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) distributed a total of P36.27 million worth of machinery to 26 farmers' cooperatives and associations (FCAs) and local government units (LGUs) in Zambales. 

These include 20 hand tractors, six four-wheel tractors, six rice combine harvesters, four riding type transplanter, two precision seeder, and a single pass rice mill.

PHilMech Director Joel Dator said the machinery grants were funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program.

"These tractors are part of PHilMech's efforts to upgrade and improve the farm operations of FCAs. Each is equipped with a tracker system,” he shared.

Dator assured that the agency will provide continuous assistance to the province.  "We will add or complete the machinery and facilities from land preparation to drying and milling,” he told recipients.

About 156 FCAs and LGUs have already benefitted from the 303 agricultural machinery and postharvest facilities awarded in the province since RCEF’s implementation in 2019. 

This is worth around P232.14 million in assistance. (CLJD/RGP-PIA 3)