Ifugao heirloom rice now high-value crop

By Florida Robles

LAGAWE, Ifugao -- The heirloom rice of Ifugao is not anymore an ordinary rice but is now considered high-value crop.

Agriculture Secretary Piñol bared this here saying the DA will support heirloom rice farmers but will also introduce dairy farming in the province.

Piñol said during his recent visit to the province that on November, a trade fair will be held in Urban California and one of products that they will be bringing is the heirloom rice of Ifugao.

He also invited Rep. Teddy B. Baguilat and Gov. Pedro G. Mayam-o to attend the event.

Baguilat told Piñol the Ifugao people will support the President and the DA the next six years.

       Though it was just a short visit because he said he needed to catch his flight back to Manila for his only grandchild’s birthday, he promised to come back August 31 for longer discussion on how to help farmers improve agriculture in Ifugao.

The reason why he roams around the country, he said, is because he wants to know the needs and wants of farmers first-hand.  “I have always believed farmers that’s why I understand farming. It will always be the farmers who know what is best for them.”

Piñol dropped by Camat residence in Lamut, Ifugao from Cagayan.

A warm welcome was given by provincial officials led by Baguilat and Mayam-o and farmers.

The governor also welcomed DA regional director Dr. Lorenzo M. Caranguian, public officials, farmers, and local folks who attended the dinner.