Bayambang Boosts Farm Modernization with Equipment, Cold Storage Projects
BAYAMBANG, Pangasinan – The local government of Bayambang is intensifying efforts to modernize its agriculture sector through partnerships with national agencies and private companies, focusing on farm mechanization and improved post-harvest facilities.
Special Assistant to the Mayor Dr. Cezar Quiambao said agriculture remains an area where the town needs to catch up, emphasizing that mechanization is key to increasing productivity. With two years left in their modernization program, the municipality is accelerating initiatives to upgrade farming operations.
Among the major projects underway is the construction of two additional cold storage facilities dedicated to onion farmers. Each facility will have a combined capacity of up to 150,000 bags and is expected to be operational early next year. Funding for the project is largely covered by the World Bank, with 90 percent support, while the local government shoulders the remaining cost. Farmers will be able to rent storage space at affordable rates.
The town has already established a modern post-harvest complex through a public-private partnership in 2022. This includes a rice mill, silo, cold storage units, and solar drying facilities designed to reduce losses and improve product quality.
To further support farmers, the municipal government has worked with the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization to provide access to modern equipment. Financing options are also available through the Land Bank of the Philippines, offering loans with low interest rates for machinery purchases.
Private sector participation has expanded access to equipment, with LS Tractor opening a showroom in the town. Farmers can acquire machinery with minimal upfront payment, while the remaining balance may be financed through accessible loan programs. Additional support is provided by E-Agro Corporation, which offers low-interest, collateral-free financing and other agricultural services.
Quiambao also revealed that a major international food company plans to invest around PHP2 billion in Bayambang over the next two years. The project includes the establishment of a broiler farm, hatchery, and swine facility, which could introduce modern livestock practices to local farmers.
He encouraged farmers to embrace new technologies and work together by clustering their farms to maximize the benefits of mechanization and shared resources.
NPO News Team | News Philippine Agency - PR
