DAVAO DEL SUR — In a significant move to bolster rice production, around 69,450 rice farmers in the Davao Region are set to benefit from a total of PHP 600 million worth of fertilizer discount vouchers, as part of an intervention pledged by President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.
The Department of Agriculture initiated the distribution of fertilizer discount vouchers in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, aiming to stabilize rice supply amid commercial fertilizer price challenges. The allocation, part of the third phase of the voucher distribution, provides eligible farmers with P 4,000 per hectare for non-clustered rice farms, and over PHP 5,000 per hectare for clustered rice farms, covering more than 104,000 hectares of rice farms in the Davao Region.
A ceremonial distribution of the vouchers in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, saw the participation of 200 out of the 1,700 eligible rice farmers, who expressed gratitude for the government’s continued support for the rice farming community.
Beneficiaries will be able to redeem the fertilizers from nearby D.A-accredited merchants, ensuring accessibility and convenience.
This initiative underscores the commitment of the local government of Magsaysay and the national government to extend vital aid to rice farmers in Davao del Sur, as they work towards ensuring food security and a thriving agricultural sector.