Tantangan, South Cotabato- On November 5, 2024, PhilRice Midsayap recently conducted the Kick-off Ceremony and Program Briefing for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) at the Barangay Gymnasium, San Felipe, this town. 

This initiative aims to educate stakeholders on the program’s goals, beneficiaries, and guidelines, focusing on enhancing rice farmers’ awareness of modern production technologies. RCEF provides essential resources, including high-quality seeds, machinery, training, credit, and irrigation support, bolstering the livelihoods and incomes of rice farmers across the Philippines.

Key officials and representatives from various implementing agencies, including a video message from Sen. Cynthia Villar, Senate Committee on Agriculture Chairperson, reaffirming her commitment to the program’s success and encouraging continuous support for farmers. 

Presenters included Mr. Jose Nori Buhat from PhilRice-MES, who outlined the 2025 Dry Season Seed Allocation, and various representatives from TESDA- South Cotabato, ATI- RTC XII, OPAg South Cotabato, PCIC XII, NIA- SCSIMO, and the DBP. Municipal Mayor Timee Joy G. Torres-Gonzales expressed her support for the program and addressed local farmers’ concerns. 

The ceremony concluded with a message from Mr. Vergel Lapeña on behalf of South Cotabato Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Raul D. Teves, affirming the Provincial Agriculturist Office’s dedication to advancing RCEF in South Cotabato.

The event fostered open forum between farmers and program implementers, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the rice sector and supporting farmers in the province.