Rehabilitated Warehouses Bolster Rice Security in Region II

The Department of Agriculture’s (DA) initiative to modernize food infrastructure has resulted in the refurbishment of several National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses in Region II. This effort aims to reduce post-harvest losses, safeguard farmers, and fortify the regional food supply chain.

Modernization Efforts

The Masagana Agri-Food Infrastructure Modernization (MAFIM) program, managed by the DA, has completed the renovation of six NFA warehouses within Region II. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who also chairs the NFA Council, stated that this project shows the Marcos administration’s resolve to improve post-harvest methods.

“This initiative reflects the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving post-harvest systems, minimizing grain losses, and ensuring Filipino rice farmers receive fair value for their palay through more efficient procurement by the NFA,”

—Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The upgrades, though not increasing storage capacity, have vastly improved safety, structural integrity, and operational efficiency. For instance, in Isabela, the refurbished warehouses in Burgos, Roxas, and Tumauini can now hold up to 148,000 50-kilo bags of rice. According to the DA, this is a step toward better food security and support for local farmers. The Philippines’ rice production is expected to increase by 2.5% in 2024, according to a report by the USDA (USDA, 2024).

Enhancements and Impact

The improvements include new roofs, fortified walls, enhanced ventilation, and advanced pest control systems. This ensures that the warehouses are more resilient and prepared for disasters. NFA administrator Larry Lacson explained the facilities are better equipped to protect rice stocks and support quick response during emergencies.

“Our upgraded warehouses are now better equipped to protect rice stocks and support swift response during emergencies. We’re also expanding capacity to accommodate more palay from farmers who have long waited in line for NFA to purchase their harvest,”

—NFA administrator Larry Lacson

Region II, a major rice-producing region, was prioritized in the DA’s three-year NFA modernization roadmap. As of June 13, NFA Isabela has 437,585 bags of rice, enough to supply the province for 34 days.

These upgrades should help minimize post-harvest losses, safeguard farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthen the food supply chain’s resilience. The modern facilities are expected to provide better support for rice farmers, contributing to food security.