By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the heat of the day in Hamtic, Antique, sacks of newly milled rice stood ready as farmers and cooperative members gathered to witness a major step toward stronger food security. For many of them, better rice processing means better income and more stable supplies for their families and communities.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally inspected the Rice Processing System of the Hamtic Multi-Purpose Cooperative to ensure that the government-funded project delivers real benefits to local rice farmers. The inspection formed part of the administration’s efforts to strengthen agriculture and secure a steady rice supply in the province.
The rice processing facility is designed to improve postharvest operations, which include drying, milling, and storage of palay. These stages are critical because poor postharvest handling often leads to losses, lower rice quality, and reduced income for farmers. By improving these processes, farmers can sell better-quality rice at fairer prices.
During the visit, President Marcos emphasized that strengthening postharvest facilities is just as important as increasing farm production. He said farmers work hard in the fields, and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that their harvest is protected and properly processed after collection.
Officials explained that the Rice Processing System allows farmers to mill their own produce instead of relying on private millers who often charge high fees. This helps cooperatives reduce costs, increase earnings, and keep more value within the farming community.
The project also supports the government’s broader goal of maintaining sufficient rice supply at the local level. By improving processing and storage, provinces like Antique can reduce dependence on rice from other areas, especially during bad weather or supply disruptions.
Agriculture officials noted that postharvest losses in rice can reach significant levels if facilities are outdated or lacking. Modern systems like the one in Hamtic help reduce waste, maintain grain quality, and ensure that rice sold in markets is clean and safe for consumers.
Members of the Hamtic Multi-Purpose Cooperative welcomed the inspection, saying the facility gives them greater control over their harvest. Cooperative leaders shared that access to proper milling equipment has already helped farmers save money and plan their production better.
The inspection also highlighted the role of cooperatives in countryside development. By managing shared facilities, farmers can work together, pool resources, and strengthen their bargaining power. This approach supports small farmers who often struggle on their own against rising costs and market challenges.
President Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to agriculture, particularly rice production, which remains a staple food for Filipino families. He said projects like this show how government investments can directly improve livelihoods while ensuring food security.
The visit comes as the government continues to push for farm mechanization, better infrastructure, and stronger farmer organizations nationwide. These efforts aim to make agriculture more resilient to climate change, rising costs, and global market pressures.
As the inspection ended, farmers expressed hope that continued support and proper monitoring would allow projects like the Rice Processing System to reach their full potential. For them, the facility represents more than machinery—it is a chance for stable income, reduced losses, and a more secure food supply for Antique.
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