The Department of Agriculture-Davao Region (DA-Davao) has distributed hybrid seeds valued at P23 million to three municipalities in Davao del Norte as part of its initiative to bolster rice production in the region. The distribution aims to enhance farm productivity, increase yield potential, and ensure the availability of quality planting materials for local rice farmers.
Seed Distribution Breakdown
According to DA-Davao, the allocation includes P14.4 million worth of hybrid rice seeds covering 2,924 hectares for the Municipality of Asuncion. Another P8.3 million was allocated for 2,924 hectares in the Municipality of Braulio E. Dujali, while P448,160 was provided for 100 hectares in Tagum City. The department announced these details on May 20, 2026, emphasizing the importance of the program for the upcoming wet cropping season.
Support for Farmers and Innovation
The ongoing distribution activities are part of DA-Davao's broader efforts to strengthen rice production and support farmers. The department has been promoting locally produced hybrid rice seeds as a sustainable solution to improve rice production in the region. Regional Executive Director Macario Gonzaga highlighted the need for innovation, development of local seed production, and a future that uplifts the lives of farmers.
DA-Davao aims to shift the sourcing of hybrid seeds from 60 percent imported and 40 percent local in 2024 to 60 percent locally produced and 40 percent imported this year. This transition underscores the department's commitment to reducing dependency on imported seeds and boosting local agricultural capabilities.
Current Planting and Monitoring Efforts
In the region, approximately 2,024 hectares have been planted with hybrid rice during the dry season, with 1,737 hectares in Davao Oriental, particularly in the municipalities of Banaybanay and Lupon. The department has intensified weekly monitoring, validation of planting activities, coordination meetings with local government units, and assistance programs for farmers and fisherfolk.
Addressing Agricultural Losses
These initiatives come after reported agricultural losses of P117 million since January 2026 due to moisture stress linked to the slow onset of the El Niño phenomenon. The losses include approximately P76 million from rice crops, P26 million from corn, and P14 million from high-value crops. Davao del Sur and Davao City were affected by moisture stress, with the hardest-hit areas in the towns of Matanao and Bansalan. DA-Davao's proactive measures aim to mitigate such impacts and ensure food security in the region.
