MEDELLIN, Cebu — After nearly three years of inactivity, the corn post-harvest facility in Barangay Caputatan Sur is finally operational, giving corn farmers access to mechanized drying technology. Governor Pamela Baricuatro led the Switch-On Ceremony on October 9, 2026, marking the start of operations.
A Long-Awaited Boost for Corn Farmers
The facility boasts a total drying capacity of 60 tons, equipped with four 15-ton corn dryers. These machines help farmers dry their harvest more efficiently, reducing the time, labor, and costs associated with traditional sun-drying methods. The facility represents a significant upgrade to the province's agricultural infrastructure.
Governor Baricuatro announced that corn farmers from Medellin and neighboring towns may use the facility free of charge until December 2026. She also committed to establishing a similar facility in San Remigio to expand access to post-harvest services in Northern Cebu. Her vision extends beyond infrastructure.
"As much as possible, if makaya nato per district, mas maayo gyud. Kay ang akong goal is to make Cebu the Corn Capital of the Philippines," Governor Baricuatro said. The statement underscores her administration's commitment to agricultural development across the province.
Relief for Local Farmers
For local farmers, the facility eases both physical and financial burdens. Nemna Soon Velasco, president of the Medellin Farmers Scientist Association, said farmers previously paid P400 per person per day for manual corn-drying labor. The process took at least five days before produce could be sold.
"Physically, financially, dako gyud og ikatabang ang corn dryer diri namo. Dugay na namong gihandom gyud ni," Velasco said. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support during difficult times. The 80-year-old farmer added that even with payment, the cost is far less than manual drying.
"Bisan pa og magbayad mi, mas menos ra gyud ikumpara sa gasto namo sa pagbuwad-buwad kay dako man ang suhol," she added. The facility reduces their sweat, expenses, and the time spent waiting for favorable weather conditions.
Future Improvements and Partnerships
Board Member Cesar Baricuatro, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, said additional improvements will be introduced. These include a storage area, dust collector, and perimeter fence. He credited cooperation among the provincial government and stakeholders for expediting the facility's operationalization.
"Actually, ang among target ani is October 20 pa, pero karon October 9 pa lang. So, because of the cooperation of everybody, we were able to move it up by at least 10 days," he said. The accelerated timeline demonstrates effective collaboration across agencies.
A ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement and Contract of Service between the Provincial Government of Cebu and Cebu Electric Cooperative II was also held. This partnership ensures reliable power supply for the facility's operations.
Officials Present at the Ceremony
The event gathered key officials including Fourth District Representative Sun Shimura, Board Members Nelson Mondigo and Kerrie Shimura, Medellin Mayor Edwin Salimbangon, and San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez. Their presence signaled broad support for agricultural modernization efforts in the district.
The operationalization of the corn drying facility marks a turning point for Medellin's corn farmers. With free access until December and future improvements planned, the facility promises to boost productivity and income. It also brings Cebu closer to becoming the Corn Capital of the Philippines.
