By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the early morning sun in Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental, farmers watched with hope as the keys to a modern rice processing facility were officially handed to their local cooperative—a move many believe could raise both the quality and value of their harvests.
The Department of Agriculture–MIMAROPA formally turned over the management of the Rice Processing Center (RPC) III to the Calumpit Multi-Purpose Cooperative on December 4 in Barangay San Vicente, Sablayan. The center, equipped with advanced milling technology, is expected to speed up rice processing and improve the earnings of farmers in the province.
During the ceremony, DA–MIMAROPA Regional Executive Director Atty. Christopher R. Bañas explained that the new facility was designed to surpass the performance of older rice mills. He said RPC III uses mist polishers, color sorters, and length graders—machines that remove impurities, improve appearance, and ensure uniform grains. This results in cleaner, fresher, and higher-grade rice that can fetch better prices in the market.
According to Bañas, the improved milling recovery rate means less wastage and more sellable rice per sack of palay. This is expected to benefit small-scale farmers who often suffer losses due to outdated milling services.
The facility will mainly support farmers in Occidental Mindoro, including those in Roxas and Sablayan. However, the DA noted that RPC III is also capable of serving parts of Romblon and even nearby areas in the Visayas, especially during peak harvest seasons when milling demand rises sharply.
Leading the turnover were OIC-Regional Technical Director for Operations Emerson Yago, Field Operations Division Chief Renie Madriaga, and Provincial Agri Program Coordinating Officer Eddie Buen. Local officials and cooperative members also attended, expressing optimism that the project will help stabilize rice supply and improve livelihoods in their communities.
The DA said the turnover reflects its broader goal of strengthening local agriculture through modern facilities and stronger community partnerships. For farmers who have long struggled with post-harvest losses and fluctuating market prices, the new RPC offers a chance to increase productivity and regain control of their harvest.
As the cooperative begins managing the center, residents hope the project will not only raise incomes but also inspire more investments in local agriculture. For many in the region, the upgraded milling facility symbolizes a step toward a more stable and sustainable rice industry.
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