Farm mechanization in the Philippines is fast gaining ground but there is a need to strengthen the human resource capacities to ensure that investments in farm machines are maximized. That was the message of Jose Luis Fernandez, representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) who was a guest at the third Regional Forum on Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization held in Manila and attended by delegates from the Asia Pacific. A corn harvester in action Fernandez cited the rapid increase in rice harvesters in the Philippines. In 2011, there were only 41 units of rice harvesters. By 2014, the number had jumped to 1,806 units. Such postharvest machines, combined with tractors and transplanters, among others, significantly help improve farm productivity and product quality. They also reduce production cost and post-harvest losses, which translate to enhanced income for farmers and improved food supply. Truly, farm machinery can provide great advantages. In land preparation, for instance, tractors can plow and harrow several hectares of rice fields in a matter of hours [...]
