Modernizing Agriculture! Irrigated Upland Rice Farming: Replicating Israeli Technology

With more groups supporting the introduction of Irrigated Upland Rice Farming using Israel Technology on Pressurized Irrigation and Fertigation, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has adopted the project as one of the programs to address poverty and food sufficiency in the rural areas and highlands of Mindanao.

At least 10 more pilot areas will be identified all over Mindanao and developed right after the traditional upland rice harvest period in July and August.

Upland Rice Farming has long been a tradition of many farmers in the uplands planting indigenous rice varieties like Dinorado and Hinumay between February and March, in time for the onset of the rainy season.

The unpredictability of water supply for the farms, however, had limited the production to only about 1 to 2 metric tons per hectare.

Four weeks ago, I enrolled in an on-line course offered by the Mashav of Israel on Modern Pressurized Irrigation and Fertigation in the Tropical Regions.

After two sessions, I decided to apply what I learned in a personally-funded experiment in my farm on growing upland rice using the Israeli Technology.

With PhilRice Midsayap headed by Dr. Sailila Abdula as my partner, I installed the Rain-Type Pressurized Irrigation in a 400-square meter area where I planted a modern Hybrid Rice Variety for Dry Seeding, US Seedworks’ TH 82.

Last week, officials of US Seedworks came to the farm and pledged to support my project and the expansion of the pilot testing areas in other parts of Mindanao.

With the pledge of support, I decided to get the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) involved as the lead agency for the oher experimental areas.

At least 10 more pilot areas will be identified where Pressurized Irrigation System with Fertigation will be introduced.

These areas will serve as the learning centers for the Israeli Technology on Pressurized Irrigation and Fertigation which made Israel a major food exporter in the Middle East.

#LearningIsNeverEnding!

#KungGustoMaramngParaan!

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