NFA Inaugurates P355-M Grains Hub in Iloilo to Bolster Food Security

The National Food Authority (NFA) has inaugurated a modern post-harvest facility for grains in Dumangas, Iloilo, valued at P355.4 million. This initiative is part of efforts to ensure the Philippines maintains a resilient rice reserve and strengthens its food security. The Dumangas facility is equipped with a modern warehouse capable of processing 10 tons of palay (unmilled rice) per hour and a mechanical dryer with a throughput of 240 tons of palay per day. It is expected to benefit rice farmers and their associations in Dumangas, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, San Enrique, and Passi City. The NFA anticipates that the facility will enable the purchase of an additional 3,600 bags of palay daily, totaling approximately 324,000 bags over two crop seasons, compared to the average annual procurement of 281,728 bags over the past five years. Agriculture Secretary and NFA Council Chairman Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. stated that modern post-harvest facilities will allow the NFA to procure more palay, reduce post-harvest losses, improve grain quality, and build stronger rice reserves. "Every bag we procure strengthens the country’s ability to keep rice affordable and available, especially during supply disruptions," Mr. Laurel said in a statement issued by the NFA. NFA Administrator Larry R. Lacson described the Dumangas facility as an investment in productivity and food security, as well as a significant upgrade in procurement operations in the Western Visayas. "Modern equipment allows us to buy more palay, reduce waste, and move grain into our buffer stocks faster," Mr. Lacson said. "Farmers gain a dependable buyer, while consumers benefit from a stronger and more reliable rice supply," he added.