By Kenneth Marcos 
The sun rises over vast green fields, where farmers in the Philippines check their growing rice, a daily scene that reflects the country’s ongoing food security efforts. Recent monitoring by the Philippine Rice Information System (PRiSM) shows significant progress in the first semester of 2026.
From September 16, 2025, to February 25, 2026, farmers planted a total of 1,738,252 hectares of rice across the country. According to the latest data released on March 12, about 4% of these crops are in the vegetative stage, 31% in the reproductive stage, 35% are ripening, and 30% have already been harvested.
PRiSM’s fourth monthly report for the 2026 first semester is based on satellite images from Sentinel-1A and 1C, covering the period from mid-September 2025 to early March 2026. These satellite-based observations provide accurate, real-time information on the growth stages of rice fields, helping farmers, local governments, and agricultural agencies make informed decisions on irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and harvesting schedules.
The data also highlight opportunities to improve rice production efficiency. By understanding which areas are approaching harvest or are still in early growth, extension services can better allocate resources, promote timely interventions, and support farmers in maximizing yield. This monitoring system reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for agricultural development and food security.
Experts note that tracking rice growth through satellite imaging allows authorities to anticipate supply levels and plan for distribution, ensuring stable market prices and reducing the risk of shortages. Farmers, in turn, benefit from knowing the condition of their crops even in remote areas.
With 30% of the rice already harvested and the rest progressing through critical growth stages, the Philippine rice sector is on track to maintain steady production for the first half of 2026. Continued use of PRiSM data will strengthen crop management, boost productivity, and support the livelihoods of millions of rice farmers nationwide.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News