News Monitor March 22, 2013

Submitted by Arlhene S. Carro, DA-AFIS

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The Manila Times

B1

 

Photo Release:  The DA in partnership with the National Onion Growers’ Cooperative Marketing Association (Nogrocoma)  send a trail shipment of 20 tons of yellow granex onion s form Bongabon, N. Ecija, bound for Osaka, Japan.  The onions were a product of a research project funded by the DA’s HVCDP through the BAR.  The send-off was led by DA Asec. Salacup, who represented DA Sec. Alcala. 

The Manila Times

B3

James Galvez

Alcala: PH on track for rice self-sufficiency

The DA on Thursday said that it remains on track with its rice self-sufficiency target this year, and appealed not to equate sufficiency with zero imports.  DA Sec. Alcala said that this year, the DA’s efforts are geared towards increasing palay production to about 20MMT, in line with the Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP).   Alcala’s statement was contrary to those blurted by Palace spokesman Lacierda during a press conference.  The DA chief explained that the government’s planned importation of 187,000 metric tons this year as buffer stock for the lean months should not be equated with rice self-sufficiency. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

9

DJ Yap

Self-sufficiency doesn’t mean we won’t import rice, sys Alcala

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The Philippine Star

C3

Czeriza Valencia

Gov’t on track to achieving rice sufficiency – Alcala

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Manila Standard-Today

A4

 

Rice self-sufficiency

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Business World

S1/7

Joel Escovilla

DA sure of rice self-sufficiency

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Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Don’t equate rice sufficiency with imports – DA

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Manila Standard-Today

A1

Anna Leah Estrada

PH ‘rice-sufficient’ but still importing

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The Daily Tribune

3

Charlie Manalo

House minority doubts country would attain rice self-sufficiency in 2014

House Minority Leader, Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez said the administration should stop taking the people for a ride when it comes to attaining self-sufficiency in rice when all other experts have been saying otherwise. 

Manila Bulletin

 

Jonas Reyes

Zambales going global with mangoes

The sweetest mangoes grown in zambales are not just for show to spur local tourism as industry stakeholders revealed yesterday their goal of snaring a significant share of the global market which demands more of the tropical fruit.  DA Sec. Alcala said that mango is one ofd the prime commodities in the DA’s HVCDP, as it is one of the country’s port winners.  Alcala said that the agency will be allotting P100M for the mango industry’s thrust.

Balita

11

Rommel Tabbad

‘Pinas, alerto sa porcine circovirus

Ipinag-utos ni DA Sec. Alcala ang mahigpit na pagbabantay sa mga border ng Pilipinas upang matiyak na hindi makapapapsok sa bansa ang karne ng mga namatay na baboy mula China na nagtataglay ng porcine circovirus.

The Manila Times

B1

James Galvez

Promise seen in PH dairy, milk industry

The Philippines will revise upward its dairy production target for the next four years as domestic milk production continued to surpass targets, the NDA said on Thursday.  NDA Admin. Grace Cenas said that the agency aims to acquire more than 50% of the total liquid milk or ready to drink (RTD) market by 2016, from the current target of 43% market share under the government’s medium term dairy development plan. 

Business World

2/S1

Raymond Portillo

Government mulls higher liquid milk target

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Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

PHL to raise milk-production target to more than 50 percent

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Manila Bulletin

17

Alexander Lopez

Nat’l Year of Rice launched

Davao City hosted the launching of the National Year of Rice held at the Waterfront Hotel the other day.  Hundreds of farmer leaders, organizations and DA officials from the different provinces in Region XI participated in the event. 

Manila Bulletin

16

Tara Yap

Visayan sea fishing ban lifted

Since March 15, the BFAR lifted the four-month ban on sardine, mackerel and herring fishing.  Catching and selling of said three species are allowed again. 

The Philippine Star

A20

Danny Dangcalan

BFAR lifts fishing ban in Visayan sea

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Malaya

A12

Paul Icamina

Slaying sacred cows in front of Brahmins

The tool, Nutrient Manager for Rice gives site-specific advice to farmers on how and when to apply fertilizer.  The electronic tool, developed by IRRI, is being promoted in the Philippines, Indonesia and Bangladesh.  The mobile, web-based toll creates the opportunity to develop an integrated platform that will connect the rice supply chain, optimize rice production and increase incomes, especially for farmers. 

Malaya

A12

IRRI

After labor, fertilizer is highest rice input

The Nutrient Manager for Rice tailor-fits information on how best to apply fertilizer in rice fields.  It can be accessed through a personal computer, smartphone or by calling a free number. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

B2-4

Ernesto Ordoñez

Commentary:  NGOS and agriculture anchors

For agriculture, to be sustainable, it must be profitable.  NGOs can play a big role in making this happen.  They can be the catalyst that will make farmers profitable using economies of scale in technology transfer, selling and purchasing. 

Business Mirror

A4

John Bello

Ex-Quezon exec wants COA probe on DA funds given to NGO

A former Quezon provincial board member and now a practicing private lawyer is asking the COA to probe the questionable disbursement of funds by a NGO supposedly set up by Quezon Third District Rep. Danilo Suarez, but whose beneficiaries apparently have not received funds. 

Malaya

A1

Madelaine Cabrera

Company sells rice in sachets, bowls

SL Agritech Corp. is pushing its rice brand offering it in sachets and in bowls topped with native viands. The company is also selling price in 300 gram-sachets for P125.   The sachet will be enough for three meals for one person. 

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News Monitor March 21, 2013

Submitted by Arlhene S. Carro, DA-AFIS

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Business Mirror

B3

 

Photo Release:  DA-AMAS Dir. Leandro Gazmin, NAFC Dep. Director Florabelle Uy-Yap, NAFC Dir. Ariel Cayanan, National Onion Growers Cooperative Marketing Association Inc. (Nogrocoma) Secretary-Treasurer Fe Ilagan, DA Asec. Salacup, BPI Dir. Barron, Nogrocoma Chief Executive Office Dulce Gozon, Japanese expert Dr. Teruko Haga, National Onion Action Team Chairman Leah Cruz and Noat member Lamberto Punzalan pose with 20MT of yellow granex onions bou8nd for Japan on March 16. 

Manila Bulletin

B1

EHL

Rice study

The DA earmarked P26M to bankroll a benchmark study on the country’s rice economy in comparison with other rice-producing countries.  DA Sec. Alcala said the study will serve as a management tool in crafting interventions to make the Philippines competitive in rice production, processing and marketing, and in preparation for the regional economic integration under the ASEAN Economic Community two years from now. 

Balita

4

Jun Fabon

P26M, inilaan sa rice study

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Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

20MT of yellow onions exported to Japan

The Philippines finally ventured in the lucrative yellow granex onion market in Japan after shipping out 20MT of the crop on March 16.  Officials of the DA and the National Onion Growers Cooperative marketing Association Inc. witnessed the loading of the onions – sourced from N. Ecija province’s Bongabon town – into a 20-foot container van, which was loaded onto an Osaka-bound ship at the Manila Harbor Center. 

Abante

3

Joselito Perez

Sibuyas ng Pinas, pa-Japan na

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The Manila Times

B3

Rosalie Periabras

DTI, PCA pushing coco-coir industry

The coir industry inter-agency convergence led by the DTI and the PCA will conduct the Second National Coco Coir Summit to promote and foster the Philippine coco coir industry’s growth, and help the country move toward achieving its rural development goals.    

The Manila Times

A7

Neil Alcober

Imports curb rice sufficiency, bloc says

The militant peasant group KMP on Wednesday assailed the Aquino administration’s continuing rice importation, adding that the government backtracked form its target to achieve rice self-sufficiency in 2013 after the NFA approved the importation of 187,000MT of rice for the year. 

Business Mirror

B3

Jonathan Mayuga

Sugar farmers hope for higher income under agri program

Sugarcane farmers in Batangas province who are enrolled in the Sugar Block Farming program of the DA and the DAR are expressing hopes that lower production costs – and possibly higher yields – will increase their income. 

People’s Tonight

13

 

100-day countdown for NIA’s 50th year

The NIA-Naga City launched a 100-day countdown for the 50th anniversary celebration of the NIA on June 22. NIA regional spokesman Eduardo Yu said a NIA-hosted congress will be held for some 500 farmer leaders and irrigation association officials in Bicol next month. 

Business World

6

RJ Portillo

Rice producer in talks with First Pacific

Hybrid rice producer SL Agritech Corp. (SLAC) pans to establish a 2,000-3,0000 hectare commercial rice plantation in Iloilo this year, a top company official said yesterday, in what could involve a joint venture with Hong Kong-based conglomerate First Pacific Co. Ltd. 

The Manila Times

B2

James Galvez

SL Agritech Corp. to push IPO this year

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Manila Standard-Today

B1

Anna Leah Estrada

SL Agritech eyes listing

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People’s Tonight

4

 

Editorial:  Let’s support drive vs rice smuggling

The DA has appealed to various sectors of Philippine society, including local government authorities, agriculturists, farm technicians and farmers, to join the national government’s all-out campaign against rice smuggling. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A24

Ramon Tulfo

On Target: The other side of Chiz

On the other hand, despite an abundant harvest, which will probably make the country export rice this year, rice smuggling continues.  Smuggled rice is shipped into the ports of Manila, Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro.    

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A16

Dodong Flores

Urgent action needed to save copra farmers

Due to the low price of copra which is currently selling at only P15 per kilo, the people of Gian, Sarangani province, are being overrun by a calamity.  An office must be established in every copra-producing municipality for the disbursement of coco levy funds directly to copra producers.    

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News Monitor March 20, 2013

Submitted by Arlhene S. Carro, DA-AFIS

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Balita

13

RT

Photo Release:  Ipinagkaloob ni DA Sec. Alcala kay Bulacan Gov. Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado ang plaque of recognition para sa Bulacan, bilang isa sa sampung lalawigan na tumanggap ng Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Award na ginanap sa PICC sa Pasay City kamakailan. 

The Philippine Star

B4

Delon Porcalla

Rice target pushed back

Contrary to what Pres. Aquino has been telling the public for the last three year, the government will not be self sufficient in rice this year.  The target has been pushed back for a year, or until 2014.  According to DA Sec. Alcala, we expect the harvest in 2013 to be around 20MMT. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A11

Michael Ubac

Gov’t backtracks, will continue rice imports

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Malaya

A7

 

Lacierda says PH rice-sufficient next year

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Manila Bulletin

6

Madel Namit

Rice self-sufficiency

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Manila Standard-Today

1

Joyce Pañares

PH won’t be rice self-sufficient yet

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The Daily Tribune

3

Paul Atienza

Rice to still be imported in 2013

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Manila Bulletin

6

EHL

Rice achievers

Ten provinces and 48 cities and towns were honored as the country’s top rice achievers for 2012, and received prizes totaling P110M in project grants and cash incentives.  DA Sec. Alcala congratulated and handed over the awards to the provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, during the 2nd Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers’ Awards on March 15, 2013 at the PICC in Pasay City. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

B6

Riza Olchondra

DA earmarks P26M for study on rice sector

Anticipating the impact of the Asean economic integration by 2015 on local rice production and trade, the DA is spending P26M for a baseline study on the local rice sector in comparison with those of other rice-producing countries.   

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Agri dept. allots P26 million for Phl rice-industry study

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Business World

6/S1

Raymond Portillo

DA funds rice study in preparation for ASEAN Free Trade Agreement

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The Manila Times

B1

James Galvez

DA to benchmark local rice industry

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Pilipino Mirror

15

Paul Ang

Karne ng baboy mula sa China binabantayan

Mahigpit na pinababantayan ni DA Sec. Alcala ang mga border ng bansa sa harap ng pagkamatay ng mga baboy sa China.  Ayon kay Alcala, inalerto na rin nya ang iba pang kinauukulang ahensiya ng pamahalaan upang masigurong hindi makapasok sa bansa ang mga karne ng baboy na kontaminado umano ng porcine circovirus na makasasama sa kalusugan ng makakain nito. 

Remate

3

Jun D

Zambales mangoes kinikilala

Daragsa ang mangga sa lalawigang ito sa gaganaping 15th National Mango Congress, isang taunang pagtitipon ng mga stakeholder sa larangan ng industriya ng mangga na gaganapin sa Ramon Magsaysay Technological University convention center mula ngayon hanggang sa Marso 22, kaugnay ng 13th Zambales Mango Festival na gagawin naman sa Zambales Sports Complex na tatagal hanggang Marso 24. 

Business World

10/S1

LOP

Group to go after rice smugglers

The provincial government of South Cotabato has formed a task force that will crack down on smugglers of imported rice in a bid to protect farmers during the incoming harvest season. 

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Carabao agency to use DNA technology to enhance buffalo breeding program

The PCC is adopting DNA marker technology to improve its breeding program and boost mil production.  The technology will bolster the country’s dairy program, which currently imports 90% of its needs at a cost ranging from $500M to $600M. 

The Daily Tribune

9

 

DTI, PCA pushing coco-coir industry

The coir industry inter-agency convergence led by the DTI and the PCA will conduct the Second National Coco Coir Summit to promote and foster the Philippine coco coir industry’s growth, and help the country move toward achieving its rural development goals.    

Malaya

A2

 

Coco coir summit set March 21

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Malaya

A7

 

Calabarzon coconut planters to supply ANI requirement

Coconut sourced from plantations in Cavite, Laguna, Aurora and Quezon provinces will supply the primary needs of AgriNurture, Inc. as it expands its coco-water business in the country. 

Balita

5

Leandro Alborote

Erap, pararangalan ng Carabao Center

Pararangalan ng PCC ngayong Miyerkules, Marso 12, si dating Pangulong Estrada at anim na iba pa dahil sa kontribusyon ng mga ito sa paghubog sa institusyon bilang lider sa livelihood biotechnology research and development. 

Abante

6

Joselito Perez

BFAR: Mag-ingat sa seafoods

Pinag-iingat ng BFAR ang publiko ng pagkain ng seafoods at tiyaking sariwa umano ang mga binibiling isda at seashells upang hindi mabiktima ng food poisoning.   

People’s Journal

12

Jun Legaspi

Be wary in buying seafoods – BFAR

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Abante

6

Amihan Sabillo/J. Perez

Isda naglutangan sa temperature shock

Temperature shock o biglaang pagbabago ng panahon ang sinasabing dahilan kung bakit naglutangan ang mga bangus at tilapia sa Dagupan, Pangasinan. 

Remate

9

Dr. Hilda Ong

Ang Inyong Lingkod:  NIA at 50: One minute jingle contast para sa aktibong empleyado ng NIA

Ang paligsahan sa paggawa ng “One Minute Jingle” para sa NIA at 50 anniversary ay pangkapuluan o nationwide.  Ito ay bukas sa lahat ng aktibong empleyado ng NIA at maging ang employment status. 

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News Monitor March 19, 2013

 

Submitted by Adora D. Rodriguez/Arlhene Carro  (DA-AFIS)

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Business Mirror

B3

 

Photo Release:  DA Sec. Alcala poses with the governors and agriculture officers of the top 10 provinces chosen as the Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers for 2012 during the Second Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Awards at the PICC inPasayCity on March 15.

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Wage war vs rice smuggling, DA urges rice players

Sec. Alcala has urged rice-industry stakeholders o wage against rice smuggling, saying it distorts fair trade, depresses prices of palay and discourages farmers from planting crop. 

People’s Journal

3

Joel dela Torre

Wide support for fight vs rice smuggling urged

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Pilipino Mirror

2

Monchet L.

DA Regional Directors pinagsabihan ni Alcala

Pinagbawalan ni DA Sec. Alcala ang lahat ng RED sa buong bansa na mag-isyu ng rekomendasyon para sa kaukulang tax incentives sa mga kompanya na may kaugnayan sa pagnenegosyo sa agrikultura.   

Manila Standard-Today

A6

Butch Gunio

Governor Ebdane gives Zambales mango a go

Zambales Gov, Ebdane leads the opening on Wednesday of the 15th National Mango Congress.  The 3-day gathering of mango stakeholders will be held at the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University convention center.  At the Zambales Sport Complex, the 13th Zambales Mango Festival will be held until March 245.  DA Sec. Alcala will be the keynote speaker joined by Sen. Angara along with Bb. Pilipinas title holders Shamcey Supsup, Venus Raj and Janine Tugonon. 

The Manila Times

A7

Anthony Bayarong

Zambales poised to host National mango Congress

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Pilipino Star Ngayon

 

Alex Galang

15th National Mango Congress sa Zambales

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Manila Bulletin

8

Mars Mosqueda, Jr.

P2-B proposed for NIA-76 budget

The NIA-7 is hoping that the Regional Development Council inCentral Visayaswill approve its proposed budget of almost P2B which it wants to use to fund four priority project areas in the region.   

Manila Times

B1

Mayvelin Caraballo

Agricultural sector growth not maximized

The Philippine agricultural sector is a major challenge in the country’s economic development. The agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing sector grew by only 2.7 percent in 2012.

The Daily Tribune

9

 

Proof-based agri program pushed

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Remate

9

Hilda Ong

NIA one-minute jingle contest

Magdaraos ang NIA ng ika-50 anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag, na may temang, NIA at 50: Serving the farmer with excellence and commitment to continue its legacy for the years to come.

Business Mirror

B3

Manuel Cayon

PHL fish catch expected to be better this year

Fish catch in the country is expected to improve this year after the first two months of 2013 showed a sharp increase in the unloading of fish at the Davao Fishport Compelx.

Business Mirror

B3

PNA

GenSan port topped fish landings in 2012

The GenSan City Fishing Port Complex has regained its status as the country’s premier fish producer after it narrowly edged out the Navotas Fishing Port Complex in total volume of fish landing in 2012.

 

 

 

 

 

 

News Monitor March 18, 2013

 

Submitted by Adora D. Rodriguez/Arlhene Carro  (DA-AFIS)

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Business Mirror

A4

 

Photo Release:  DA Sec. Alcala, Dasoland’s Carolina Jimenez, DA’s HVCDP Dir. Jennifer Remonquillo and DA-1 RED Perdido hold a basket of newly harvested mangoes at the 409-hectare Dasoland adventure park in Dasol town, Pangasinan on March 7. 

The Philippine Star

B10

 

Photo Release:  Monterey’s long standing commitment to serve and deliver quality meats and its success being the first and only choice of consumers in the market are by-products of its partnership with the DA through its advocacy project Know Your Meat Caravan.  To honor its partnership with the DA, San Miguel Purefoods Co. president Francisco Alejo III handed over a Certificate of Recognition to DA Asec. Davinio Catbagan as a token of appreciation for its unwavering support toMonterey’s widely successful advocacy campaign. 

The Philippine Star

B5

CzerizaValencia

DA wants say in grant of agri perks

DA Sec. Alcala has asked the BOI to defer to the department before granting tax incentives to business engaged in agriculture.  This, he said, will prevent another incident similar to the controversy stirred by the granting of tax incentives to Charoen Pokphand (CP) Food Philippines Corp., a unit of Thailand-based Charoen Porkphand Group. 

Malaya

A2

 

PH to import 187,000 tons of rice for lean season

The DA yesterday said it will import 187,000 MT of rice this year for the country’s buffer stock during the lean season.  DA Sec. Alcala said the NFA Council has allowed the importation through a government-to-government deal. 

The Philippine Star

B8

Louella Desiderio

Export opportunities for Phl agri products abound

New opportunities for the export of Philippine agricultural products are seen to open for local firms following the country’s participation in a German trade fair, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) said.  The ECCP with assistance from the DA’s AMAS, was able to send four Philippine companies to the trade fair. 

Manila Bulletin

B2

Bernie Magkilat

RP fresh fruits, veggies find new market in Europe

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Business Mirror

B3

Jennifer Ng

Four-agribusiness firms eye European market

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Philippine Daily Inquirer

16

PNA

Government constructs Camarines agri facility

The DA-RFU 5 has earmarked some P1.5M for the establishment of a facility that will serve as organic agriculture trading post in Camarines Norte. 

Business Mirror

B3

 

DA allocates P1.5 million for trading facility in Camarines Norte capital

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Business Mirror

B3

Leon Garcia

Lawmakers expect bill on mechanization to be enacted

Legislators are confident that Pres. Aquino would give due course to a measure called “An Act Promoting Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Development in the Country”. The measure mandates the formulations of a comprehensive National Agri-Fishery Mechanization Program by the DA with provisions of clear objectives.  

Manila Bulletin

B11

Melody Aguiba

RP may export hybrid rice to US

The Philippines may be able to export rice to the US market through trader Buona Vita as planters in La Paz, Tarlac are finding markets for excess production from 3,000-hecatre are planted to hybrid rice. 

Business Mirror

B3

 Antonio Rimando

Zambo Sur town wins farming prize in Germany

The agricultural town ofDumingagin Zamboanga del Sur was declared the winner of the 2012 One World Award given by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement and the Germany-based Rapunized Naturkost.

Malaya

A2

 

Tarlac finds benefits of planting hybrid rice

A 3,000 hectare land has already been allotted for the plantation of high-yielding SL-8H hybrid rice inLa Paz, Tarlac supported by a subsidy program by local government units. The hybrid rice subsidy program may eventually enable the province to export rice to theUS.

Manila Bulletin

18

Tara Yap

P512.2M Iloilo rehabilitation fund approved

The program is classified in three sectors – economic, social services, and infrastructure – and the amount approved for its funding was based on the cost of approximate damage caused by the flooding that occurred in the province. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

B2-3

Riza Olchondra

NEDA supports efforts to boost agri income

NEDA wants NFA to beef-up its rice buffer stock for emergency purposes and to focus its interventions and programs in areas that will enhance efficiency in the production, marketing and trade of rice.

Business World

6/S1

Leandro Alborote

Farm productivity

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Business World

6/S1

 

Breadfruit propagation

BIARC is undertaking a project aimed at the commercial production of breadfruit and development of its by-products.  

The Daily Tribune

3

Arlie Calalo

Central Luzon farmers query NFA rice scheme

A farmers’ group has questioned the Special Rice Sales program of NFA which was “a mere duplication of an existing similar scheme and is allegedly favoring only those close to the agency officials. 

 

 

 

 

 

News Monitor March 15, 2013

 

Submitted by Adora D. Rodriguez/Arlhene Carro  (DA-AFIS)


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Business Mirror

A4

 

Photo Release:  Joseph Tan Buntiong, president of Red Ribbon; Ysmael Baysa, chief finance officer of Jollibee Food Corp. and treasurer of Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF); Ryan Russel, head of Office of Catholic Relief Services Philippine Program; DA Sec. Alcala; Grace Tan Caktiong, president of JGF; Gondelina Amata, president of National Livelihood Development Corp. (NLDC); and Belen Rillo, vice–president of JFC, during the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) Forum 2013 at Jollibee Plaza, Ortigas Center on March 14. 

The Daily Tribune

4

 

Alcala asked to explain why DA gave money to fake NGO

Senate Pres. Pro Tempore Sen. Jinggoy Estrada has asked the DA, led by Sec. Alcala, to explain why it allegedly gave funds to fake NGO. Estrada said he trusted the DA gave to a legitimate NGO his PDF after he gave the certification to the office of Alcala. 

Remate

2

Macs Borja

DA tinuligsa sa pagbibigay ng pondo sa bogus na NGO

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Pilipino Star Ngayon

2

Malou Escudero

Alcala sinisi ni Jinggoy

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Balita

5

Leandro Alborote

P41M para sa Pablo victims

Nagpalabas na ng P41M pondo ang DA para mga magsasaka ngCompostelaValleyna sinalanta ng bagyong Pablo noong nakaraang taon. 

Business World

S1/1

 

Rice imports pegged at 187,000MT

The government will import 187,000MT of rice this year, down from last year’s 500,000MT, for buffer stock purposes.  The NFA last month said it was targeting to buy 615,985MT of rice locally, 72.71% more than last year. 

The Philippine Star

B4

CzerizaValencia

‘No more imports of rice by 2014

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Philippine Daily Inquirer

B2-3

Riza Olchondra

PH to import 187,000 tons of rice as buffer stock

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The Daily Tribune

2

PNA

Government to import 187,000 metric tons rice this year

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Manila Standard-Today

B1

Anna Leah Estrada

NFA okays rice imports of 187,000MT in 2013

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Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

DA cuts rice imports by over 50% to 187,000MT

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Balita

5

Rommel Tabbad

Dagat may red tide ligtas pa ring languyan – BFAR

Tiniyak kahapon ng NFAR sa publiko na ligtas na languyan ngayong summer season ang mga karagatan sa bansa na may red tide.  Kailangan munang makainom ng ilang litrong tubig-dagat na may red tide bago makaapekto ito sa kalusugan. 

Pilipino Mirror

15

Moncet Laraño

Fishing ban sa Visyas inalis na

Tuluyan nang tinanggal ng BFAR ang ipinatupad na apat na buwang pagbabawal na makapangisda ng sardinas, tamban at mackerel sa bahagi ngVisayanSeaat sa paligid na karagatan simula ngayong araw. 

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Fishing ban in Visayan Sea ends on March 15, 2013

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The Manila Times

B3

James Galvez

BFAR lifts four-month Visayan sea fishing ban

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Balita

5

Light Nolasco

Hataw sa rice production, pararangalan

Nakatakdang gawaran ng DA ng Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Award ang mga lalawigan, bayan at indibidwal na malaki ang ambag sa pagtamo ng hangarin ng pamahalaan na staple self-sufficiency. 

Business World

6/S1

Raymond Portillo

Tarlac farmers to get hybrid rice seedlings

The provincial government of Tarlac is helping rice farmers in themunicipalityofLa Pazby providing subsidized hybrid rice to boost their production and position the town as an export-oriented agricultural trade center.

The Manila Times

B2

James Galvez

Tarlac farmers adopt SL Agritech hybrid rice variety

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Business Mirror

A5

Marvyn Benaning

Second TOFARMM Awards launched, woman-farmer category added

This is to recognize the growing number of women who have carved their names in various components of agriculture who have brought recognition to the country through their individual or collective endeavours.

Manila Bulletin

14

Alexander Lopez

Davao purple yam production thrives

The venture on purple yam production was started by a group of farmers who were beneficiaries under the Gawad Kalinga program in Catigan, Toril. The City Agriculture office provided the farmers with a tractor to help them with their land preparation.

Pilipino Mirror 

3

Raffy Tulfo

Ang animo’y asong ulol na opisyal ng DA

Kapag natuloy ang pag-upo ni Sen. Pangilinan, ang una nyang dapat gawin ay alisin ang mga taong binitbit ni Sec. Alcala na karamihan ay di naman kwalipikado.

Business Mirror

B2-6

Joey Pavia

BFAR supports call to end Bataan, Pampanga fishing area row

BFAR is supporting the calls of Gov. Lilia Pineda for the quick and amicable settlement of the dispute over fishing boundaries between Pampanga andBataan.

Abante

7

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

 

People’s Journal

8

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

 

Manila Standard Today 

A3

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

Malaya

 

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

Business Mirror

A3

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

Manila Times

 

 Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

 Philippine Star   

13

Paid Ad 

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

Philippine Daily Inquirer 

A28

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

Manila Bulletin

B6

Paid Ad

National Rive Achievers’ Awards

 

 

 

 

News Monitor March 14, 2013

 

Submitted by Adora D. Rodriguez/Arlhene Carro  (DA-AFIS)

Newspaper

Page

Writer

Article

Business Mirror

B3

Antonio Rimando

DA, DepEd team up to improve agri-fishery education

Starting school year 2013 to 2014, the DA and the DepEd will jointly explore appropriate measures to improve the delivery of agriculture and fishery education to 136 agri-fishery technical-vocational (tech-voc) schools in the country. The venture was formalized through a MOU signed recently by DA Sec. Alcala and DepEd Sec. Armin Luistro. 

Tempo

6

Czarian Ong

Govt braces for humanitarian crisis

DILG Sec. Mar Roxas said the government has readied measures to prevent any humanitarian crisis as tens of thousands of Filipinos fromSabahare expected to flee towards the southern provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.  As theSabahstandoff continues. Roxas has met with DSWD Sec. Soliman, DA Sec. Alcala, DTI Usec. Maglaya, Maritime Industry Authority Nic Conti, and NFA Admin. Calayag in order to discuss the welfare of evacuees in the three provinces. 

People’s Journal

12

Joel dela Torre

Php41-M rehab aid for ComVal farmers

The government released P41M as rehabilitation assistance to farmers of high-value crops inCompostelaValleyaffected by Typhoon Pablo.  DA Regional Director for Davao Remelyn Recoter said the assistance package is part of DA Sec. Alcala’s commitment to provide assistance to farmers and families displaces by the typhoon. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

E6

 

Rice industry sector signs covenant against rice smuggling

No to rice smuggling! This was the agreement reached between the government and multi-sectoral groups of the rice industry during a policy dialogue held on Feb. 22, 2013 at the PCA-Executive Lounge in an effort to curb the rampant rice smuggling in the country.  DA Sec. Alcala and NFA Admin. Calayag witnessed the signing of the covenant. 

Business Mirror

B3

PNA

Fisheries stakeholders seek to turn BFAR into separate department

Stakeholders in the fisheries sector will lobby for the passage of a law transforming the BFAR into a separate executive department once the 16th Congress opens in July.  According to BFAR Dir. Asis Perez, his agency is working with various fisheries-based groups in pushing for the passage of the bill.

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A13

Juan Escandor, Jr.

BFAR facility offers hope for fish canning

The BFAR in Bicol said a P30-M packing facility it has been operating since 2011 would help boost the canning industry in the region which yearly produces more than 200MT of good quality canned fish. 

Pilipino Mirror

6

Marivic Ragudos

P60M irigasyon ng Bulacan, Pampanga at Nueva Ecija

Kabuuang P60M ang inilaan ng DA para sa patubig ng ikatlong distrito ng Bulacan na binubuo ng mga bayan ng San Miguel, Sa Ildefonso,San Rafael. Angat, Doña RemediosTrinidadat Norzagaray.  Sinabi ni DA Sec. Alcala na ang malaking bahagi ng halaga at para sa pagkukumpleto ng mga kanal ng patubig na nagdurugtong mula sa Casecnan Dam na nasa Science City of Muñoz,N. Ecija.

Business Mirror

B3

Manuel Cayon

Cash crops should not be planted in areas devoted to rice, says Surigao gov

Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel said cash crops should not be introduced in lands devoted to rice, including areas formerly planted with coffee, which has shown renewed market potential.  Pimentel said he would not let cash crops replace traditional crops in the province, adding that Surigao del Sur was awarded by the DA as the highest rice-producing province in thePhilippineslast year. 

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A10

 

Smuggled rice seizures seen success at Customs

The BoC is making inroads in the campaign against smuggling following the seizure of undocumented rice cargo in different ports in the country.  The bureau said records will show that, in one year alone, Customs were able to stop the smuggling of at least P800M worth of agricultural products. 

 Business Mirror   

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Pinoy farmers only coping with climate change, says study

Most Filipino farmers, fishermen and forest residents are only coping with and not systematically mitigating the impact of climate change.

People’S Tonight  

4

Vic Reyes

Smuggler ng bangus sa NAIA, timbog

Inaalam pa ng BOC kung sino-sino ang mga consignees ng mga ipinuslit na bangus na ayon sa BFAR ay walang permit.

Tempo  

2

 

Seized bangus

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Business World  

S1/3

Bettina Faye Roc

BOC to bid out smuggled sugar

According to the notice, interested bidders must have approved sugar import allocations with the SRA for this year.

Business World

S1/11

Romer Sarmiento

Price control in Tawi-tawi as refugees surge

Reports show that there is enough rice supply in Tawi-Tawi.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

News Monitor March 13, 2013

 

Submitted by Adora D. Rodriguez/Arlhene Carro  (DA-AFIS)

Newspaper

Page

Writer

Article

Manila Standard Today

 

Joyce Pañares/Julito Rada

PNoy: Agri boom sets off PH to export rice

ThePhilippineswill start exporting this year high quality rice to Macau, Hong Kong, theUSand several countries in theMiddle Eastas Pres. Aquino called on investors to join the boom in the agriculture sector.

Manila Bulletin

11

 

Incentives for investors with more benefits to consumers and economy

Agriculture is one sector with a strong component, so they are encouraging it for the economy to grow in a more elusive way.

Manila Bulletin

14

 

Foreign investors eye major agri-business projects in Region 6.

DA-VI is exploring opportunities that will further boost the agri-business industry in theWestern Visayasregion. Talks are currently being undertaken with investors regarding plans to establish the largest palm oil plantation inCentral Panay.

Business World

6

RJRP

Value of crop insurance dropped in January

The value of agriculture insurance coverage in January dropped by 4.43% as the number of farmers insured declined due to continuous rains.

Malaya

2

 

Rice supply can meet demand: BAS

Rice supply in the country will be enough to cope with expected consumption over the next two months. More stocks will beef up the inventory ahead of the lean season in June.

Philippine Star

B7

CzerizaValencia

DA distributes P41M for Compostela Valley

The assistance, provided to growers of bananas, cacao, coffee and rubber, is part of the commitment of DA through task Force Alayon which was formed to help farmers recover their livelihood. 

Business Mirror

B3

Noel Provido

DA gives P41M in rehab aid to CamVal farmers

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Business World

10

Noemi Gonzales/MJOC/KMPT

Withdrawal plan sent to Malaysia

The Departments of Interior, Social Welfare and Agriculture have assured the delivery of relief supplies to areas hosting Filipino evacuees fromSabah.

     Balita

5

Rommel Tabbad

Bigas sa Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, sapat kahit may deportees

Tiniyak ngayong linggo ng NFA na may sapat na supply ng bigas ang Basilan, Sulu at Tawi-Tawi, kasunod ng pagdagsa ng mga Pinoy na idine-deport sa mga nabanggit na lalawigan mula sa Sabah, Malaysia, bunsod ng patuloy na bakbakan ng puwersang Malaysian at ng royal army ng Sultanate of Sulu.

Business Mirror

B3

 

JDI, Seminis team up for hybrid-seed distribution

Jardine Distribution Inc., the country’s leading marketing company for various agricultural, construction and home pest-related products, has partnered with Seminis, one of the world’s largest vegetable-seed companies, to market and distribute the latter’s hybrid vegetable seeds in the Philippines.

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A9

Yolanda Sotela

Groups ask SC to revoke tax holiday to Thai firm

Five organizations and two party-list groups said the BOI refused to issue copies of board resolutions that assign a pioneer enterprise status to the Chareon Pokphand Foods Philippines Corp which allows it to enjoy six years of fiscal incentives.

Business Mirror

B3

PNA

BFAR OKs Bacolod fishermen’s projects

BFAR chief in Negros Occidental announced the approval of the projects of four fishermen’s associations during his recent visit toBacolodCity. The projects worth are P210, 000.

Manila Times

A7

 

Smuggled rice a bane to farmers, merchants

National Confederation of Irrigation Association said that there will come a time when the food on our tables will be scant due to smuggling. Its president, Ireneo Leuterio said that imported or smuggled rice have now flooded government warehouses that already affected the farming sector.

Philippine Star

B7

Mary Ann LL. Reyes

Not making sense

Just recently, the National Biofuels Board composed of different government agencies, namely the Department of Energy, Trade and Industry, Agriculture, Agrarian Reform, and Sugar Regulatory Administration said it would manadate all oil companies to sell only gasoline blended with ethanol. Currently, a few gasoline grades are still ethanol-free and are used by gasoline-fed engines not compatible with a 10-precent ethanol blend.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

News Monitor March 12, 2013

Submitted by Arlhene S. Carro/Catherine Nanta, DA-AFIS

Newspaper

Page

Writer

Article

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

Rice, food supply in Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Sulu stable – agri dept.

There is no reason for anyone to panic about a possible shortage of rice and other food items in the provinces of Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, despite the massive influx of Filipinos from Sulu who are either fleeing the fighting there or were forced to leave by Malaysian authorities.  DA Sec. Alcala has ordered officials of the DA to ensure the supply of rice and other basic food items in these provinces to prevent a shortage, whether real or artificial, that could lead to skyrocketing food prices. 

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

February rice stocks good enough for two months

The Philippines has enough rice for the next two months, with additional stocks ready to replenish the grain consumed before the onset of the lean season in June, the BAS reported on Monday.   The BAS said the country’s total rice stock inventory was estimated at 2.02MMT as of February, 13.2% lower than the 2.33MMT recorded in the same month in 2012. 

Business World

6

Raymond Portillo

February rice stocks drop by 13.30%

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The Manila Times

B1

James Galvez

Enough rice stocks for next 2 months

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Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

PhilMech, 11 schools sign deal to distribute postharvest technologies

Eleven SUCs have been tapped to disseminate postharvest and mechanization technologies through knowledge packages under an agreement they signed with the PhilMech. 

Tonight

7

 

Php2.5-M bangus seized

The BoC seized boxes of bangus worth P2.5M following inspections in the warehouses of two cargo companies in Pasay City the other day.  A verification made by BFAR revealed that no permits were issued for the said boxes of bangus.  The BoC is now on the process of identifying the consignees of the said bangus. 

People’s Journal

3

 

BoC sizes Php2.5M smuggled milkfish

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Abante

6

Otto Osorio

P2.5M bangus nasilat sa NAIA

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Balita

3

Mina Navarro

Kahun-kahong bangus sa inspeksiyon

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Pilipino Star Ngayon

3

Butch Quejada

P2.5-M puslit na bangus nasamsam

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The Philippine Star

A21

Ric Sapnu

BFAR warns vs jellyfish attack in Bataan

The BFAR has warned the public against possible jellyfish attacks in the waters of Bataan.  The stinging tentacles of the jellyfish cause severe itching and rashes and could even cause blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes. 

Remate

2

Alex Ching

Mga magsasaka nagpasaklolo kay PNoy

Nagpasaklolo ang irrigators group kay Pangulong Noynoy dahil sa talamak na smuggling ng mga produktong agrikultura sa bansa. 

Malaya

A7

Irma Isip

Rising demand for chicken spurs new investments

New investments in additional capacity are needed for the production of poultry to cope with a rising demand for chicken, the DA said yesterday.  In a letter to the Board of Investments (BOI), the DA endorsed a new poultry project – which has a contract agreement with San Miguel Corp. – for its registration as a preferred investment and entitlement to incentives. 

Business Mirror

B3

\Jennifer Ng

Trade agency: Farm products entering China needed registration accreditation

Philippine Trade and Investment Center commercial officer in China Christine dela Cruz said that for new exporters, this may involve site inspections and product tests/sampling. China’s Decree 55 include food commodities such as meat and meat products, aquatic products, egg and egg products, dairy products, bee products and other non-prescribed foods such as biscuits and beverages.

Business Mirror

B3

Antonio Rimando

200 livestock farmers graduate from DA radio-based program

The 3-month program, hosted by provincial info officer/ farmcaster Nilda Emphasis and aired on local FM station dxRQ and dxMM, tackled livestock production and marketing of goat, swine and cattle.

Manila Bulletin

B1

Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat

New investment needed to meet rising demand for poultry products

The DA said there is a need for new investments to put up additional production capacity to meet with the increasing demand for chicken.

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A16

Frinston Lim

With drop in food aid, ComVal farmers told to plant more corn

Provincial agriculturist Rolando Simene said, “we have to prioritize our food crops in preparation for the eventual stoppage of food donations from UN to our typhoon-affected communities particularly farmers.

Philippine Daily Inquirer

A2

Delfin Mallari

P-Noy just can’t let GMA go

Sec. Alcala and son Irvin Alcalca who is running for governor in Quezon arrived with Pres. Aquino during the Team PNoy’s campaign sortie in the province.

 

News Monitor March 11, 2013

Submitted by Arlhene S. Carro/Catherine Nanta,DA-AFIS

Newspaper

Page

Writer

Article

Manila Standard-Today

B1

 

Photo Release:  DA Sec. Alcala holds a basket of newly-harvested mangoes at the 409-hecatare Dasoland adventure park in Dasol, Pangasinan.  Boasting of 7,.500 mango trees, Dasoland was recently accredited by the DA’s BPI as a mango nursery operator and source of quality mango seedlings for propagation. 

Manila Bulletin

11

 

Promoting organic farming and agri-tourism

The DA encourages more farmers, entrepreneurs, hobbyists, and overseas Filipino workers to establish organic farms that will serve as agri-tourism sites.  A model organic farmer was commended and presented a certificate by the Da as an accredited technology extension provider at the recent 26th Anniversary celebration of the DA’s ATI. 

Tempo

3

 

Promoting organic farming and agri-tourism

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The Philippine Star

C2

Czeriza Valencia

CNO exports up 44% in Feb

Exports of coconut oil (CNO) went up 44% to 61,800 MT in February from 42,854MT a year ago due to higher copra production and strong demand from traditional markets, the UCAP said. 

Business World

6/S1

Raymond Portillo

Coconut oil exports increase

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Manila Standard-Today

B1

Anna Leah Estrada

Tamarind plantations

The DA and Unilever Philippines Inc. are teaming up to develop a tamarind plantation in the Philippines.  Unilever will be the main market of the fresh sour tamarind fruit, while the DA will provide inputs such as seedlings, organic fertilizer and small irrigation facilities. 

Business World

2

Raymond Portillo

DA, Unilever team up for tamarind farm

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Malaya

B2

Jay Chua

Imported ‘bangus’ fingerlings seized

Customs authorities seized yesterday at the Paircargo and Miascor bonded warehouses of the NAIA three shipments of milkfish fry, unloaded from three airlines from Singapore, Hongkong and Malaysia.  A total of 201 boxes of bangus lacked permit from the BFAR. 

Business Mirror

A5

Recto Mercene

Milkfish fry shipments seized at airport

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Manila Bulletin

17

PIA

NYR launched

The DA-RFU 8 recently led in the provincial launch of the National Year of Rice (NYR) at Ampil Pensionne, Maasin City, Southern Leyte with over 200 stakeholders including farmers’ and irrigators’ association leaders, agriculture officers, and provincial, municipal and city officials present. 

Malaya

A11

Madelaine Cabrera

Major exporter expands plantation area

Listed food producer and trader AgriNurture Inc. (ANI) recently acquired a P1B banana plantation in Mindanao to help increase its sales to foreign markets.  On the other hand, BPI Dir. Clarito Barron said that Cavendish banana exports increased by 111% with 3.8MMT in 2012 compared to 1,8MMT in 2011, prior to the import restrictions imposed by China. 

Business Mirror

B3

Marvyn Benaning

NFA employees back agriculture official

Employees of the NFA have come out to support DA Asec. Dante Delima, who recently denounced the plan of the Neda and the DBM to abolish the food agency.   

Business Mirror

B3

 

Sugar-industry programs benefit small-scale farmers

The Philippine sugar industry has been addressing the concerns of small stakeholders after recognizing the need to engage in activities alleviating the income, health and education-related problems that persist in the countryside, despite efforts to resolve these. 

Pilipino Mirror

14

Monchet Laraño

Rabies-free PH sa 2020

Nagkasundo ang World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) at ang DA-BAI na makamit ang rabies-free Philippines sa 2020.  Ayon kay DA Asec. Davinio Catbagan, may 500,000 dosage ng anti-rabies vaccines ang ituturok sa mga aso para madeklara na rabies-free ang Pilipinas sa pagsapit ng 2020. 

Malaya

A10

 

BPI pushes agribusiness in Luzon, Mindanao

BPI is betting heavily on agriculture this year and is increasing its involvement in the sector by launching a loan program designed to benefit livestock raisers in Central Luzon and in the expanding business corridors in Mindanao like Cagayan de Oro, Davao and Gen. Santos.

Manila Bulletin

17

 

DSWD to launch major anti-poverty programs in Negros Oriental

During the launch of the P134-million worth of poverty-alleviation community projects under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, DA was among the agencies which attended the said event.

Business Mirror

B3

Max de Leon

SoKor agri experts, Zambales municipality agree to introduce technologies to farmers

Included in the MoA signed between South Korea and Zambales is the holding of seminars and training where the Koreans will share technical knowledge, skills, and modern machineries to farmers of the municipality.

Manila Times

B3

James Galvez

State universities to support farm mechanization program

The DA has partnered with 11 state universities and colleges for the dissemination of postharvest equipment and mechanization technologies, as well as educate farmers down to the grassroots level.

Business Mirror

A4

J. Mayuga

Adoption of cites strategic vision pushed to protect wildlife

Member countries and various international organizations have agreed to strengthen protection against poaching and illegal wildlife trade under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Included in the convention is DA-BFAR headed by Dir. Asis Perez.

Manila Bulletin

B7

Leonardo Postrado

BOI incentives questioned before SC

Domestic hog and poultry industry stakeholders have asked the Supreme Court to stop the BOI from granting pioneer status and tax incentives to Thai Food Giant Chareon Pokphand while warning possible job losses to millions of Filipinos.

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