FARM machinery and equipment worth P44.5 million were turned over to 13 rice farmer organizations in Kalinga by the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PhilMech) during a ceremony at the provincial capitol in Tabuk City on Wednesday, February 7.

The farmers received 20 units of farm machinery, including four-wheel-drive tractors, rice combine harvesters, 6T recirculating dryers, and a hand tractor.

Rogelio Idago, PhilMech director for extension, said that the machinery would lower the production expenses of the farmers and potentially decrease postharvest losses by up to 14 percent.

He encouraged the beneficiaries of farmers' cooperatives and associations to use the machinery efficiently and ensure that they are well maintained for longevity.

Idago also said that the machinery must be utilized by all members of the group and not just the officers.

"I hope that not only the chairman and the vice chairman who will use these machineries because it will defeat the purpose of the program," Idago said.

Idago added that farmers will also be trained on how to operate and maintain the machinery.