The Department of Agriculture’s Provincial Agricultural Technology Coordinating Office (DA-PATCO) in Negros Oriental is optimistic that reduced corn prices and increased supply will prevail in the coming months with the onset of the rainy season.

Kent Babylonia, DA-PATCO-Negros Oriental agriculturist, told the Philippine News Agency in an interview yesterday that with the rains affecting many parts of the province in recent days, corn farmers are getting ready for cropping season.

“We are thankful for the rains that help the farmers in getting their fields ready, allowing them to begin planting corn, which will be ready for harvest in a few months,” Babylonia said in Cebuano.

According to Babylonia, latest data gathered from the local market here in the past week showed that some corn grits were available but still at a higher price of about P69 a kilo, much higher than imported rice which is sold up to P62 a kilo for premium milled. Meanwhile, local premium rice remains at P70 a kilo.

The DA-PATCO observed a shortage of corn grits in recent months, linking it to higher demand and lower supply.

The perceived shortage has increased the prices of the staple, Babylonia said.

Farmers were urged to plant corn to address the requirements of the province, which is not sufficient in both rice and corn production.

Babylonia said the DA-PATCO continues its assistance to farmers by giving away free seeds and fertilizers.

The prices of locally produced rice have not moved for weeks now, making it more expensive than imported rice due to transportation and other overhead costs, Babylonia said. (PNA)