By Kenneth Marcos 
Before sunrise in Nueva Ecija, farmers gathered with a shared goal—to find better ways to keep their cooperatives strong and their harvests profitable. Many came from different towns, bringing stories of struggle and success, but all carried the same hope: that working together will help them build a more secure future in rice farming.
During the RiceBIS Mid-Implementation Workshop, farmer-leaders emphasized that the success of any cooperative depends not only on government support but also on unity, hard work, and responsible leadership. Participants agreed that these values remain the backbone of a thriving agribusiness.
Catalino Obinario Jr. of Center Cooperative reminded fellow farmers that self-reliance is just as important as external assistance. “Huwag lang umasa sa gobyerno; magsumikap din tayong mga magsasaka para umunlad,” he said, echoing the sentiment felt by many in the room. His message highlighted the growing recognition among farmers that long-term progress comes from shared effort and perseverance.
The workshop also tackled key issues that continue to challenge farmers and cooperatives, including machinery repair and maintenance, marketing strategies, and production efficiency. Representatives from various agencies such as PhilMech, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), the National Food Authority (NFA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and the local government of Nueva Ecija provided guidance to address these concerns.
These agencies discussed available programs for equipment support, market linkage, skills development, and financial assistance. Many farmers said these inputs help them navigate rising production costs, market competition, and the need to improve rice quality to meet consumer expectations. With climate change also affecting farming seasons, the role of coordinated support has become even more crucial.
Local entrepreneur Lourdes Arboleda of Arboleda Catering Services expressed strong confidence in the quality of local rice. She emphasized that rice grown by Filipino farmers remains “masarap, ligtas, de-kalidad, at tunay na makamagsasaka.” Her testimony served as encouragement for cooperatives to continue upgrading their practices and strengthening their brands.
As the workshop drew to a close, farmer-leaders and agency representatives pledged to continue working together to improve production, increase income, and promote locally grown rice. Their shared efforts reflect a simple truth: when communities stand united, progress becomes possible—even in a sector as challenging as agriculture.
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