CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — A P238-million food security complex will be developed in Brgy Sta Catalina, Lubao town — the first in the province — following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Provincial Government, Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 3, and Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) on Monday, May 29.
Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, DA Region 3 Director Crispulo Bautista, and PhilMech Director Dionisio Alvindia led the MOA signing ceremony, which was witnessed by Provincial Agriculture Committee Chairperson and Board Member Ananias Canlas, Jr.
The Pampanga Food Security Complex is the result of a tripartite agreement between the Pampanga government, DA Region 3, and PhilMech.
Governor Delta emphasized that the food security complex aligns with one of his 12-point agendas to ensure a sustainable food sector in the province. He highlighted the significance of establishing sufficient and reliable infrastructure to support key agricultural processes and empower marginalized farmers to optimize their harvests.
The provincial government has allocated a budget of P238 million for the construction of two warehouses within the facility. This budget also covers site development, drainage systems, a 3-phase electrical system, office supplies, and various machines and equipment required for the complex.
Meanwhile, DA Region 3 will contribute P50 million towards the construction of one warehouse, as well as the funding for two units of recirculating multipurpose dryers with conveyors. PhilMech, on the other hand, will provide P72 million for the procurement of a state-of-the-art rice mill and two units of the recirculating dryer.
The concept for the food security complex was carefully crafted by a technical working group composed of experts from the DA-RFO3, Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), PhilMech, OPA, PPDO, and LGU of Lubao.
This initiative marks a significant stride towards enhancing the agricultural sector in Pampanga and ensuring food security for its residents.
