The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) forecasts that production of palay (paddy rice) for the third quarter (Q3) of the year, based on standing crop as of September 1, 2020, would reach 3.542 million metric tons (MMT), 16.1 percent (%) more than last year’s harvest of 3.051 MMT for the same three-month period.

“The 16.1% increase in Q3 palay production compared with 2019 level is a very welcome development, as it confirms that we are on the right track, and that our combined interventions are starting to pay off,” said Agriculture Secretary William Dar.

“The Duterte administration’s interventions administered by the Department of Agriculture (DA) include the: Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF); regular rice program; and rice resiliency project.

“We hope the favorable yield increase will be followed suit with a similar good performance in the 4th quarter, barring major typhoons in remaining months of the year,” the DA chief added.

“The 16.1% Q3 palay growth is also a testament to the hardwork of our farmers, LGU-partners, and the private sector — as we all aim to increase the productivity, incomes and competitiveness of Filipino rice farmers — under the continued guidance and strong support of the Senate, House of Representatives, and colleagues in the economic development cluster, led by Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez, and most importantly to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” Secretary Dar said. ###