Bringing Modern Rice Technologies to Farmers
LEYTE - Farmers in Eastern Samar are gaining an opportunity to see and compare different rice production technologies through the 2026 Rice Derby, a large-scale agricultural demonstration project being held in Dolores. A total of 26 agricultural companies are participating in the initiative, presenting hybrid rice varieties, bio-fertilizers, soil ameliorants, and other products designed to improve farm productivity. The demonstration covers nearly 150 hectares across Barangays Gap-ang and Jicontol, allowing participating companies to showcase their technologies under actual farming conditions. Led by the Department of Agriculture regional office in partnership with the Eastern Samar provincial government and private agricultural firms, the project aims to provide farmers with practical information that can guide their future production decisions.
Demonstrating Precision and Drone-Assisted Farming
The Rice Derby also highlights the growing role of modern technology in improving agricultural practices. During the opening activities, farmers and agriculture workers observed precision seeding and drone-assisted seeding methods designed to improve planting efficiency, reduce labor requirements, and promote more uniform crop establishment. Throughout the cropping season, farmer-cooperators will monitor the performance of the different technologies and compare their results under the same field conditions. This hands-on approach allows farmers to better understand which methods and products may be most suitable for their own farms and local growing conditions.
Strengthening Food Security and Climate-Resilient Agriculture
The initiative comes as the agriculture sector continues to explore ways to increase rice productivity while helping farmers adapt to climate-related challenges. By bringing together private agricultural companies, government agencies, and local farmers, the Rice Derby creates a platform for sharing knowledge and demonstrating innovations that could contribute to more efficient and resilient rice production. The results of the field demonstrations may help farmers identify technologies that can improve yields, manage soil conditions, and respond to changing environmental conditions. Through initiatives like the Rice Derby, Eastern Samar is supporting agricultural innovation while contributing to the broader goal of strengthening food security and building a more resilient farming sector in Eastern Visayas.
