The Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), represented by Ms. Joan Dela Cruz and her colleagues made a significant visit to the PRRI office on September 2, 2024. During the visit, Mr. Meynard Abello, Supervising Science Research Specialist, presented the improved technology on rubber production. This was compared against traditional rubber farming methods, highlighting the increased productivity and profitability potential.
With this promising technology aimed for higher farmerβs income, PRRI hopes that the ACPC will introduce a new credit line tailored for rubber farmers, enabling them to establish new farms using this rubber farming approach The proposed credit line is seen as a crucial step in supporting the rubber sector, given that the income from the improved technology shows a more lucrative future for rubber farmers.
Additionally, PRRI advocates for this possible new credit line to include a five-year grace period. As rubber is a perennial crop, the trees typically only become ready for tapping in the fifth year, making such a grace period essential for farmers to start seeing returns on their investments without the immediate financial pressure.
This prospective collaboration between PRRI and ACPC marks a vital initiative to boost the country’s rubber industry, providing smallholder rubber farmers with the financial support needed to adopt modern farming practices and increase their yield and income.
