Naval farmers urged to produce more red rice, sticky rice

NAVAL, Biliran -- Franklyn Diongzon from the organic division of the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas urged farmers and farmers associations in Naval to plant more organic red rice and sticky rice to support the demands in Metro Manila.

During the turn-over ceremony of the botanical concoction center and rainshelter held in Barangay Lucsoon, Naval, Diongzon informed the officials and members of the farmers associations of the need to supply 150 bags of red rice and 500 bags of sticky rice every month for Manila at a much better price.

Farmers are assured of the market since both parties have to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to sustain the trade, said Diongzon.

The farmers associations which are currently into production of vermicast and organic foliar fertilizers showed interest in said venture but has yet to agree among themselves if they can really supply the volume needed.

Barangay Capiñahan Rural Improvement Club, Barangay Lucsoon Farmers Association, Barangay Talustusan Farmers Association, and Barangay Villacaneja Farmers Association are the most active and cooperative agri partners of the Naval Municipal Agriculture Office.

Naval contributes 2,654 hectares to Biliran province’s 7,455 hectares of riceland. (PIA)