Currently, Programs for the Crops Sector are implemented with the objective of transforming farmers as adopters’ of science-based and eco-friendly farming practices. Among such, is the Rice Intensification Program which seeks to sustain rice production through promotion of modern Rice Farming Technologies which include the establishment of techno-demo sites, capability development trainings, regular provision of technical assistance thru farm visit and the conduct of Farmers’ Field School.

As a notable result of these strategies, farmers are able to meet and even surpass their production target, in favorable climatic condition. Apart from realizing increased yield, farmers also developed, in their simple ways, the value of cooperating and moving together in one with the government towards attainment of our goals and vision to become a Net Exporter of palay in the Region.

On the other hand, the High Value and Commercial Crops Development Program of the City provides additional livelihood opportunities to local farmers who practice backyard vegetable farming especially in the coastal and slum communities, using recycled materials and makeshift planting mediums.

Likewise, vegetable growers in the upland area sustain and increase their production thru adoption of new technologies. The services under the program are also extended to schools as we are supporting the “Gulayan sa Paaralan” project which enables students to learn and eventually adopt vegetable growing technologies not only in school but also in their backyard. In order to sustain their operation, vegetable nurseries are established in all barangays. The program provides the seeds and other needed inputs.

For Research and Development, the MVC Techno-Demo Farm located in Barangay Tangcarang maintains various techno-demo projects which include Organic Rice Production, in support to Republic Act 10068, otherwise known as the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 which aims to promote organic farming in the Philippines.

The Farm also houses the Hundred Islands E-Kawayan Factory, a 31M grant project from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. The project manufactures engineered e-kawayan products. More than just generating jobs opportunities and capacitating bamboo growers, the project supports the Bamboo Industry and promotes environmental conservation.