By Kenneth Marcos 
Farmers in Tubungan and Sta. Barbara, Iloilo are set to receive a new boost in their rice production as preparations begin for the distribution of VarMix® seeds — a special blend of rice varieties designed to produce higher yields and stronger resistance to pests and diseases.
The initiative, led by agricultural experts and local research partners, aims to help Western Visayas farmers improve productivity and crop resilience ahead of the 2026 planting season. VarMix® combines selected rice varieties planted together, creating a natural defense system that strengthens the plants’ resistance to environmental stresses, pests, and common rice diseases.
A coordination meeting was recently held to finalize plans for the production and distribution of the new seeds. The meeting was headed by Imeldalyn G. Pacada, chief researcher, and Leylani M. Juliano, agronomist, who both emphasized the importance of science-based seed innovation in achieving food security for local communities.
Representatives from various government and research institutions were also present, including the Department of Agriculture-Regional Office VI, PhilRice Negros Branch Station, Western Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center, National Standardized Quality Control System, and the Western Visayas Federation of Multipurpose and Seed Producers Cooperative.
According to project organizers, production of certified VarMix® seeds has already started this year to ensure timely availability by May 2026. The move supports the Department of Agriculture’s goal of increasing local rice sufficiency while reducing dependence on imported rice varieties.
VarMix® technology, first developed by researchers at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), has shown promising results in pilot areas across the country. Farmers who have used the seed blend reported better harvests and improved resilience against unpredictable weather — a growing challenge under changing climate conditions.
With the upcoming distribution, Iloilo farmers are expected to gain access to better planting materials that can help them cope with rising input costs, pest outbreaks, and erratic rainfall.
For more information about VarMix®, visit bit.ly/VarmixRS4DM.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News