Pinoy Farmer

In a major step toward modernizing Philippine agriculture, a delegation from the Department of Agriculture (DA), led by Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., recently traveled to South Korea to explore investment opportunities with the Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (KAMICO). The discussions focused on the development of a groundbreaking project: a 20-hectare Korea Agriculture Machinery Industry Complex in Nueva Ecija. Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the significance of the project in achieving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a robust and modern agricultural sector. “This project plays a crucial role in realizing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a modernized Philippine agriculture—one that ensures food security and uplifts the lives of our farmers,” said Tiu Laurel. He added that the initiative would not only drive technological advancements but also bring in foreign investments, create new jobs, and transfer innovative farming technologies...

Farming has always been the lifeblood of the Philippines. With over 10 million Filipinos depending on agriculture for their livelihood, the tools they use—both old and new—tell a powerful story of resilience, ingenuity, and adaptation. Traditional Tools: Echoes of the Past In many rural areas, time-tested tools are still widely used. These are more than just implements—they're symbols of tradition and a deep connection to the land. Araro (Plow): Pulled by carabaos, the araro is used to till the soil, especially in rice paddies. It’s slow but effective, especially in wet, sticky terrain. Suyod (Rake): Essential for removing weeds in rice fields. Its wide, comb-like structure allows farmers to maintain neat and healthy paddies. Bolo: A multipurpose blade used for everything from clearing fields to harvesting crops. It’s a farmer’s constant companion. Modern Tools: Boosting Efficiency As farming faces the twin challenges of climate change and an aging workforce, moder...

          Are you interested in gardening but don't have the space or time for a traditional garden? Have you heard about hydroponics and want to learn more? Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil that is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners and farmers. In this blog post, we'll explore the basics of hydroponics and how you can start your own hydroponic garden. What is Hydroponics?           Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using nutrient-rich water instead of soil. In a hydroponic system, the plant's roots are suspended in a nutrient solution that provides all the necessary minerals and nutrients for growth. The roots are usually held in place with an inert growing medium, such as peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite. Why Choose Hydroponics? There are several benefits to growing plants hydroponically, including: Increased yield : Hydroponic plants typically grow faster and produce more fruit tha...