Ifugao corn farmers get P23.21M in agri-aid from DA-CARto boost production

Alfonso Lista, Ifugao – Corn farmers in Ifugao are now better equipped to sustain and expand their production after they were provided 23.21 million worth of agricultural machinery and equipment by the Department of Agriculture–Cordillera on September 16, 2025.

The DA-CAR said in its press release that interventions were granted to 20 Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) in the province under the Corn Banner Program.

The machineries and equipment provided included four-wheel drive tractors, combine harvesters, corn shellers, pump irrigation systems for open source (PISOS), among others, which are seen as crucial in reducing labor costs, boosting productivity, and ensuring long-term food security.

The farm support, distributed in Alfonso Lista on the said date, is expected to cutdown working time of farmers' in the field at same time save money as they no longer need to rent equipment from renters.

DA-CAR Regional Corn Coordinator Gerardo Banawa explained that the interventions align with the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (RA 8435), which sets the framework for modernizing agriculture to make it more productive and globally competitive.

Banawa also revealed that the budget for corn development in 2026 will increase by 27% compared to 2025, reflecting the government’s stronger push for corn sector development.

Alfonso Lista Mayor Edralin B. Alipio, who witnessed the turnover, called on the beneficiaries to take good care of the equipment so it can serve them for years.

“Make sure that you will use the machinery properly so that it will continue to benefit the next generation,” the mayor was quoted as saying.

For the farmers, the interventions come as a welcome relief.

Mary D. Bogbog, president of the Pugol Indigenous Farmers Association, said their new equipment will significantly lessen farming costs and increase their income.

"Because of these interventions, our farming expenses are lessened, making our income higher," Bogbog said, as quoted by the DA-CAR.

Ifugao, apart from being widely known its Banaue Rice Terraces, is also recognized as part of the “Corn Corridor of the Cordillera.”

Although there is no detailed data in its latest report, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Ifugao ranks next to Kalinga when it comes to corn production in the region.