The Bicol Region recorded a 20% to 30% increased in rice production in areas where solar-powered irrigation system units were installed under the Philippine Department of Agriculture’s rice program.
The units were provided to seven registered farmers’ associations in Bicol earlier this year. Each unit can irrigate a minimum of 10 hectares and up to 50 hectares of potentially irrigable areas benefiting over 225 farmers. An additional three units are scheduled to be turned over.
Many Bicolano farmers, especially those in the upland areas, rely on rainfall for water while those who can afford water pumps spend quite a sum for fuel.
Read the full story at Philippine News Agency
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