P6.5M funding provided to revive Hingyon, Ifugao Heirloom rice production

Hingyon, Ifugao – To revive its heirloom rice production as well as to boost its tourism industry, over P6,000,000 in funds was awarded recently to the local government unit of Hingyon, Ifugao, by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).  

Hingyon is among Ifugao towns known for producing heirloom rice varieties passed down through generations. However, many rice terraces/fields in the area have not been cultivated in the past years due to the high cost of farm inputs, while many young people are choosing jobs outside agriculture.  

Those, according to Hingyon LGU, led to a decrease in heirloom rice production in the municipality.  

Re-elected Mayor Florencio B. Nalula, however, submitted a proposal to former DOLE-CAR Regional Director Nathaniel Lacambra in 2024, requesting funds to help the LGU bring back the cultivation of abandoned rice terraces, as well as to improve tourism sites in the municipality. 

The request was eventually granted by the agency under its new Regional Director, Imelda Romanillos this 2025, and a check amounting to P6.5 million was recently turned over to the LGU under the DOLE’s Emergency Employment Program (DEEP). 

Where the fund will go

According to the MLGU’s Information Office, 380 residents under the DEEP will be mobilized to help cultivate the abandoned areas of the rice terraces with heirloom rice and participate in community works, receiving short-term income. 

At the same time, 35 individuals will be given support to establish sustainable farming ventures, such as heirloom rice enterprises and other agri-based projects that can provide long-term livelihood. The fund will also be used to enhance tourism sites in town to attract more visitors and promote local culture.