Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina has launched a pioneering Rice-for-Fertilizer barter program aimed at helping rice farmers reduce production costs and improve harvest yields.
Known as the Fertilizer for Rice Exchange Program (FREP), the initiative allows farmers to exchange one sack of rice weighing 50 kilograms for two sacks of inorganic fertilizer, also weighing 50 kilograms each.
The program is designed to eliminate cash barriers that often prevent farmers from purchasing essential agricultural inputs, enabling them to access fertilizer directly through the produce they harvest.
Under the scheme, participating farmers can secure much-needed farm inputs without spending cash, helping them lower expenses while improving productivity and profitability.
“Serbisyong Biliranon means real solutions, not promises. When farmers thrive, Biliran thrives,” Espina said as he reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector.
The Office of the Provincial Agricultural Services (OPAS), which will oversee the implementation of the program, said FREP is expected to help increase crop yields, improve soil productivity, and boost the income of farming families across the province.
The province is expected to release distribution schedules and registration details in the coming weeks as it rolls out the program to eligible farmers.
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