DA-NIR Pushes Higher Palay Buying Price
The Department of Agriculture in the Negros Island Region (DA-NIR) is actively exploring measures to increase the higher palay buying price to better support local rice farmers. Currently, some traders are offering only ₱12 to ₱15 per kilo of palay, which falls below the average production cost of approximately ₱14.50 per kilo, local leaders reported.
This low purchase price places a heavy financial burden on farmers, jeopardizing their livelihood. To address this, DA-NIR aims to raise the buying price to ₱18 per kilo, ensuring farmers receive a sustainable income, officials noted.
Collaborative Efforts to Raise Palay Prices
To achieve the goal of a higher palay buying price, DA-NIR is partnering with the EcoAgri Foundation, led by Ramon Uy Sr., sources said. This collaboration seeks to create a fairer market for palay producers and enhance their financial stability.
Moreover, the government has imposed a two-month ban on rice importation starting September 1. This policy aims to protect local farmers by reducing competition from imported rice during the peak harvesting season nationwide, community members said.
Optimistic Outlook for the Rice Harvest Season
Farmers in Negros are optimistic about this season’s rice yield. Recent rains have not caused significant damage to crops, which bodes well for the harvest, officials reported. As a result, the volume of rice supply is expected to rise sharply by the second week of September when the harvest reaches full capacity.
With the anticipated increase in supply and the push for a higher palay buying price, local farmers hope to achieve better income stability and improve their overall welfare, sources emphasized.
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