Misamis Occidental has launched two state-of-the-art rice processing facilities offering free milling and drying services to local farmers—a first in the province’s history.
The facilities in Barangay Santa Cruz, Tangub City, and Barangay Buenavista, Oroquieta City, were inaugurated by the provincial government through the Department of Agriculture’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program and the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PHILMECH).
Each facility features multi-stage rice mills processing 1.5 tons of palay per hour and two mechanical dryers handling 6 tons per batch. The equipment targets reduced post-harvest losses, lower production costs, and increased farmer income.
“This facility is not just about machines – it’s about the farmer, the family, and the future,” Governor Henry S. Oaminal said during the inauguration. “Through strong collaboration with our national government partners under President Bongbong Marcos and Agriculture Secretary Kiko Laurel, and with the commitment of the province, we are delivering on our promise of inclusive, responsive, and effective leadership.”
The provincial government donated land and fully funded the P39.4 million construction cost for each facility. Governor Oaminal identified inadequate drying and milling services as an early administration priority.
Less than a year after committing to address these challenges, both government-owned facilities are operational. “The more we help farmers reduce costs and increase output, the more we stimulate local economic growth,” Oaminal said. “It’s a win not just for Misamisnon farmers, but for the nation’s food self-sufficiency goals.”
The project operates under the Asenso Rice Farmers Full Assistance Program, designed to boost rice productivity and farmer profitability. Officials expect the free processing services to benefit rice-producing communities and drive broader economic development.
The initiative supports the province’s Asenso Misamis Occidental development agenda—Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon, ug Malipayon (5Ms)—meaning building a peaceful, progressive, and joyful community.
All registered rice farmers in Misamis Occidental qualify for the free milling and drying services.
