By Philippine News Agency
The People's Republic of China through its consulate office in Laoag City continues to assist rice farmers here with a grant of its high yielding super rice variety, now tried and tested in most parts of the province.
Edwin Cariño, head of the Special Project for Development Office, reported Monday about 1,500 bags of Chinese hybrid rice will be distributed to rice farmers on December 14 at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena.
The 10-ton rice seeds donation from China will cover a 500-hectare rice plantation in Laoag.
According to Cariño, selected farmer-beneficiaries are entitled to at least three kilos each, most if not all of them severely affected by super typhoon Lawin.
To expedite the recovery of rice farmers in the city, the provincial government will also provide fertilizer subsidy on the same day.
Earlier this year during the June planting season, the hybrid super rice variety from China was tried and tested in Ilocos soil which yielded positive result.
With a yield of 12-15 tons per hectare, the China super rice variety is also known for its high resistance to pest and diseases.