P59.9-M Rice Processing System II to Boost Aklan Farmers’ Productivity

Kalibo, Aklan – In a major step toward strengthening the province’s rice industry, the Provincial Government of Aklan officially received the Php 59.9-million Rice Processing System (RPS) II during its inauguration in Brgy. Nalook, Kalibo, on February 18.

Funded under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), the facility is expected to improve rice production efficiency and income opportunities for Aklan’s 38,747 farmers cultivating 34,704 hectares of rice fields.

Modernizing Aklan’s Rice Industry

The Php 53.6-million multi-stage rice mill, a core component of RPS II, can process 2-3 tons per hour, integrating modern postharvest technologies such as a pre-cleaner, de-stoner, huller, mist polisher, color sorter, length grader, blending tank, and an automated packing system. Additionally, two recirculating dryers, worth Php 3.1 million each, provide a 6-ton per batch drying capacity, reducing postharvest losses and improving milling recovery rates by 5-7%.

DA-Western Visayas Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia acknowledged Aklan’s untapped agricultural potential, despite having the lowest rice yield per hectare in the region. He emphasized that government investments in mechanization must translate into real benefits for farmers, urging them to adopt improved rice varieties and modern farming practices.

“The true battle is not in these facilities but in the fields where our farmers work—this is where we must come together to make real change,” 

Arpia said, reaffirming the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) commitment to supporting Aklan’s rice sector.

Strengthening Farmers' Livelihoods

Delivering the message of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., National Rice Program Deputy Director Ralph Alan Ceniza expressed gratitude to Aklan’s farmers for their hard work in ensuring food security. He highlighted that RPS II is the government’s way of giving back, equipping farmers with modern machinery to improve productivity and profitability.

Ceniza also encouraged farmers to explore value-adding opportunities through cooperatives, positioning RPS II as a catalyst for higher-value market opportunities and long-term food security.

Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores extended his gratitude to DA and PhilMech, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to providing the best resources for Aklan’s farmers.

“I am personally excited about this project because we are now producing high-quality rice aligned with the vision of our President,” Miraflores said, reaffirming his dedication to strengthening the province’s agricultural sector.

REVOLUTIONIZING AGRICULTURE: Under the scorching heat, a farmer joyfully tested his newly acquired Walking Tractor during the distribution of farm machineries to Mangunguma associations at Agri Aqua Aklan, February 18, 2025. Photo by Jed Nykolle Harme

First RPS in Western Visayas

According to Engr. Raymond Andres, Acting Division Chief of PhilMech’s Facility Management and Field Operations Division, this marks the first inauguration of an RPS in Region 6. He assured that PhilMech’s budget has increased from Php 5 billion to Php 6 billion, paving the way for more machinery and facilities nationwide.

“We ask only one thing from you—to take care of these facilities and utilize them properly so that more farmers can benefit. Proper management can increase the possibility of receiving additional support in the future,” Andres stated, encouraging cooperatives to apply for the upcoming RCEF 2.0 program.

The event was attended by key officials including Vice Governor Atty. Reynaldo Quimpo, Former Governor Florencio Miraflores, 1st District Representative Carlito Marquez (represented by Jess Marquez), Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Alexys Apolonio, and other government and agriculture sector representatives.

With the RPS II now operational, Aklan’s rice industry takes a crucial step forward in ensuring higher productivity, reduced postharvest losses, and improved livelihoods for its farmers.