Davao projects vie for farm modernization funding

07/16/2008 | 02:16 AM

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Agriculture department’s regional office has recommended 42 applications for support from the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.

A statement quoted Rogelio C. Chio, regional Agriculture director, as saying that his office found these applicants viable, based on their feasibility studies.

"Any project proposal that we found viable, feasible, profitable, and could generate jobs, will be recommended for approval and speedy release of funds," Mr. Chio said.

Although the agency did not release the list of applications and the total amount involved, it said a number of them involved swine production, fisheries culture, banana production and post-harvest facilities for rice.

One such project was designed to increase the drying capacity of a rice producer in Davao Oriental, considered the rice granary of the Davao Region.

The department estimates that the entire agriculture sector loses about P50 billion annually to wastage due to poor or improper post-harvest storage.

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/107174/Davao-projects-vie-for-farm-modernization-funding