The Provincial Government of Bohol is planning to purchase 12,000 bags of inorganic fertilizer to support the rice farmers in the province, who are facing the challenge of the impending El Niño phenomenon.
The fertilizer, with a composition of 14-14-14, will cost P2,500.00 per bag and will be distributed to the rice farmer beneficiaries, who will receive 50 kilograms each.
This was revealed in a letter dated August 28, 2023, written by Liza M. Quirog, the Provincial Agriculturist, to Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado.
The letter stated that the procurement is intended to provide essential resources for the rice cultivation efforts in the 26,000-hectare rice fields in the province.
The letter also explained that the province will adopt a Quick-Turn-Around scheme, which aims to safeguard rice production and avert potential water scarcity during the dry period.
This scheme involves early planting between September 15 and October 15, well ahead of the usual timeframe of November to April.
Quirog emphasized the importance of providing complete fertilizers to the rice plants, which will ensure their balanced nutrition for a higher yield.
Her letter requested the governor’s favorable attention to pursue the procurement and secure the delivery of the fertilizer before the end of the year.
The provincial agriculturist expressed the determination of the Provincial Government of Bohol to ensure the food security of the Boholano people despite uncertainties that may arise due to the El Niño phenomenon.