MANILA, Philippines – A government study has indicated the modern post-harvest facilities increase farmers’ income.
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) said modern technology allows the production of good-quality milled rice and reduces post-harvest losses.
Accoring to the PIDS, farmers’ income went up to P13.9 million due to higher buying prices.
“Without these facilities, farmers could easily lose some P286.96 million,” PIDS co-authors Nerlita Manalili, Kevin Yaptenco, and Alessandro Manilay, said in the report.
The post-harvest facilities helped in reducing losses during the drying and milling processes.
“The use of flatbed dryers reduces grain deterioration or yellowing of rice grain during the rainy season as well as prevents physical losses from sun drying. The modern milling facilities at the rice processing centers also improve milling recovery, resulting in increased quantity of milled rice,” they said.
Food terminals in these four provinces where the centers are located were also found to be effective in helping provide agro suppliers with access to markets. As a result, availability of commodities and basic goods likewise improved.
The increased economic activities brought about by these food terminals have created more employment and business opportunities.
The PIDS, however, argued that benefits could be improved further if the operating capital for the rice processing centers is increased, and if issues related to the management, operation, viability, and sustainability of these post-harvest facilities are addressed.