Pinoy Farmer

Nestled in the mountainous regions of Northern Luzon, the rice terraces stand as both cultural heritage and vital agricultural systems. Built by hand and maintained for generations, these terraces showcase Filipino ingenuity and the deep bond between people and nature. Why the Rice Terraces Matter Cultural Significance: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the terraces are a symbol of ancient indigenous knowledge passed down for over 2,000 years. Sustainability: Terraced farming helps prevent soil erosion, controls water runoff, and maintains biodiversity in upland ecosystems. Food Security: These terraces support local rice production in regions where flat land is scarce. Challenges in Upland Agriculture Limited Mechanization: The terraces’ steep terrain makes it difficult to use modern farming machinery. Climate Vulnerability: Typhoons and landslides frequently damage infrastructure and crops. Youth Migration: Many young people leave farming communities, leading to fewer han...

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...

         Onion is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the Philippines. Its versatility in cooking, as well as its high demand in the market, make it a profitable crop for farmers. However, onion farming requires knowledge and skill to ensure a successful harvest. In this blog, we will discuss some tips for Philippine farming onion that can help you achieve a bountiful crop.            1. Choose the right variety There are several varieties of onion that can be grown in the Philippines, each with its own unique characteristics. When choosing which variety to grow, consider the climate in your area, as well as the market demand for the type of onion you plan to cultivate. Some popular onion varieties in the Philippines include Red Creole, Red Pinoy, and Yellow Granex.           2. Prepare the soil Onions prefer well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.8. Prepare the soil by removing ...