P6M regional center for heirloom rice set in Ifugao

KIANGAN, Ifugao – A Regional Center for Heirloom Rice worth P6 million will soon rise here in barangay Hucab as processing center for “tinawon” (Ifugao native rice).

Gov. Denis Habawel and Department of Agriculture Cordillera Administrative Region director Marilyn V. Sta Catalina led ground breaking ceremony witnessed by government officials recently.

Sta. Catalina said she hoped the project will be completed in five months.

Jimmy Lingayo, president of the Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Council, explained that the center will provide services for the processing and marketing of the Ifugao native rice.

“Tinawon” is harvested once a year as compared to the commercial rice which yields three times a year, however the quality and market value is thrice that of commercial rice. Tinawon is being exported to the USA and other countries.

Citing cultural and heritage value of the “tinawon,” Habawel said having the regional center for heirloom rice is historical for Ifugaos as it will have a part in keeping the unique identity alive.

He said “tinawon” production should be continued despite influx of commercial rice.

According to  Sta. Maria, there are similar centers in Kalinga, Bontoc in Mountain Province, Banaue and Hungduan (Ifugao) but the Hucab center will be nearer and more accessible to more people, farmers and tourists.  -- Marcelo B. Lihgawon and Donna Jay Zeller