The Iloilo Provincial Government, Municipality of Pototan, and Straw Innovations, Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to improve rice harvesting, milling, and straw management in Iloilo.
The MOU signing was led by Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., representing the Iloilo Provincial Government; Pototan Mayor Rafael Enrique Lazaro; and Mr. Jay-Rness D. Ceria, Brand and Marketing Manager of Straw Innovations, Inc.
Also present during the activity was Ms. Ellen Anthony, Second Secretary for Climate, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
The agreement aims to improve the way rice is harvested and processed, particularly in and around the Rice Processing Complex in Pototan.
Under the MOU, the parties will coordinate the use and schedule of combine harvesters with the drying and milling operations of the Rice Processing Complex. This will help reduce delays and post-harvest losses while improving harvesting efficiency.
Straw Innovations, Inc. will provide combine harvesters, technical support, operator orientation, and assistance in the deployment and maintenance of the equipment.
The partnership will also promote better management of rice straw through collection, mulching, composting, and other sustainable practices.
The Iloilo Provincial Government will lead coordination through the Provincial Technical Working Group and ensure that the activities are aligned with the province’s agricultural programs, including the Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries Enhancement Strategy–Rice.
The Municipality of Pototan, meanwhile, will help identify farmer groups and coordinate local harvesting activities. It will also assist in informing farmers about the voluntary coordination of harvesting schedules with the Rice Processing Complex.
The MOU will be effective for three years and may be renewed through a written agreement among the parties.
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