Farmers in Oriental Negros welcomed the positive effects of the abnormal weather phenomenon caused by the onset of La Niña.

Provincial Agriculturist of Oriental Negros Gregorio Paltinca said at the Philippine Information Agency Kapihan forum recently that farmers are experiencing the "positive side" of La Niña, as the rain brought about by the abnormal weather phenomenon has been beneficial to the farmers in view of the summer season, from February to April.

He said that, with the onset of the dry season, there is not enough water in areas planted with rice especially during the second cropping.

But this year, because of La Niña, farmers here are enjoying better farm yield, he said.

Paltinca said that the possible areas to be planted with rice in Oriental Negros are the following: Canlaon City (75 hectares); Vallehermoso (10 hectares); Guihulngan (20 hectares); Jimalalud (20 hectares); Tayasan (55 hectares); Ayungon (20 hectares); Mabinay (75 hectares); Zamboanguita (20 hectares); Siaton (75 hectares); Sta. Catalina (100 hectares); Bayawan City (130 hectares); Basay (20 hectares); and Dumaguete City (10 hectares).

In spite of the arid period due to the summer season, Paltinca said, the rice fields are looking healthy compared to the same period in previous years when there was no La Niña.

The provincial agriculture department continues to fast track the rehabilitation and repair of the national and communal irrigation systems in the country, in time for the planting season, Paltinca said.

In line with this, the DA national office has allocated funds for the planting of rice using certified seeds in various areas across the country.

Paltinca said he is urging farmers in the province to use certified seeds instead of good seeds. He explained that certified seeds will yield an average production of between 100 and 130 cavans per hectare, which is 15 percent more than good seeds.

"If we use good seeds only, it's only around 60 or 70 cavans," he added.*

back to top