NFA to establish a rice processing system in Surigao City
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- Surigao City is pushing for the establishment of the first ever rice processing system (RPS) in Surigao del Norte aiming to enhance rice production and support local farmers, as discussed in a key meeting recently held in Surigao City.
An RPS is an advanced facility designed for post-harvest processing of rice. It includes recirculating dryers to reduce the moisture content of freshly harvested palay (un-milled rice) and multi-pass rice mills that produce high-quality milled rice while minimizing waste.
The system will also ensure a stable rice supply, better storage, and improved efficiency in milling and distribution.
City Planning and Development Officer Rowena Salino presented key details, highlighting Surigao City’s strategic location as an ideal hub for rice processing saying, “The facility will serve not only the mainland but also neighboring areas, including Southern Leyte, Dinagat Islands, Socorro, Siargao Island, and Agusan del Norte.”
The city’s well-developed logistics and distribution network was also cited as a major advantage, ensuring smooth transportation of rice from farms to consumers. Establishing this facility in Surigao City is expected to empower rice farmers by providing access to modern processing technology, ultimately benefiting the local agricultural sector.
NFA National Administrator Larry del Rosario Lacson expressed gratitude to the city government of Surigao for its support to donate areas for the RPS, noting that the system would significantly strengthen rice production and food security in the province.
“The facility will help reduce post-harvest losses and provide modern drying and milling technology to local farmers, improving rice quality and overall productivity,” he said.
With the city’s commitment to strengthening its rice industry, the RPS is seen as a major step toward boosting agricultural productivity and reinforcing Surigao City’s role as a key player in rice distribution across the region. (Surigao City-PIO/PIA Surigao del Norte)
