Farmers' orgs in CamSur receive new drying equipment worth P328K

NAGA CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has equipped nine agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) in Camarines Sur with portable solar drying equipment valued at P328,500 to help enhance the farmers' drying processes and preserve the quality of their rice and other agricultural products.

Each farmers' organization received one Portable Solar Dryer-Grains Thermal Drying Tray (Portasol-GTDT), each valued at P36,500, under the DOST's Grant-in-Aid program.

The Portasol-GTDT can dry up to 150 kilos of rice per day, efficiently reducing the moisture content to safe storage levels, thereby boosting the farmers' income through improved quality and minimizing losses.

Naga Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Renato O. Bequillo, emphasized the Department of Agrarian Reform's (DAR) dedication to support the ARBOs beyond land distribution.

"The DAR’s commitment to the ARBOs does not end with the distribution of land. We understand the importance of post-land distribution support services, and these solar drying trays represent our ongoing efforts to ensure that farmers have the necessary equipment to remain productive and competitive," Bequillo stated.

The nine beneficiary organizations, involved in either rice production or food processing, will benefit significantly from this equipment.

The portable dryers offer a modern alternative to traditional sun-drying methods, ensuring product quality while safeguarding against contamination. The advantages of these solar dryers are manifold. The rapid drying process significantly lowers the risk of spoilage, and the product is shielded from flies, pests, rain, and dust. Additionally, the automated nature of the dryers saves considerable labor. Importantly, the drying process preserves the product's nutrients, hygiene, and color, resulting in superior quality.

The ARBO recipients include: The Alyansa ng Mangbubukid sa Tinawagan Multipurpose Cooperative (ALAMAT MPC), San Antonio Agrarian Reform Organization (SARO), Vegetable Growers Association of ARB Libod-Tinawagan (VEGAT), Pacol Magsasaka Prime Community (PMPC), Sta. Cruz Farmers-Farmworkers Association (SFFA), Sto. Niño Pili Vegetable Grower