MARAMAG, Bukidnon — The National Food Authority (NFA) has started constructing a P118-million rice processing facility in Musuan, Maramag, under the Masagana Agri-Food Infrastructure Modernization (MAFIM) Program

NFA Deputy Administrator John Robert Hermano said the project is intended to increase rice procurement, reduce post-harvest losses, and provide farmers in Northern Mindanao with access to drying, milling, and procurement services at set prices.

“This state-of-the-art facility will house a mechanical dryer, laboratory, warehouse, training center, and rice mills. These features are expected to expand storage capacity, streamline procurement, and enhance farmers’ earnings,” he said.

Hermano said Bukidnon plays a key role in the government’s modernization efforts targeting farmers.

“Musuan will serve as the main processing and milling center, with additional dryers planned for Kalilangan and Aglayan to improve palay-handling efficiency. Farmers who don’t sell to the NFA can still use the facility’s drying services. Our goal is to give all farmers access to these essential facilities,” Hermano added.

As part of a wider logistics initiative, he said Northern Mindanao is set to receive 12 of the 90 trucks being procured nationwide this year to transport farm produce to processing sites.

“Over the next three years, NFA plans to acquire 600 trucks to strengthen its logistics network and speed up rice deliveries from production areas to markets,” he said.

NFA Regional Manager Miguel Tecson said the facility will allow the agency to increase palay procurement once the dryers are operational.

“The government is investing heavily in building modern facilities. This is a symbol of our commitment to farmers. We are not just building infrastructure—we are investing in trust, efficiency, and a future where farmers are prioritized,” Tecson said.

According to Central Mindanao University President Rolito G. Eballe, the Musuan facility—one of the three largest MAFIM projects in the country—will also function as a training center for farmers and other stakeholders.

Department of Agriculture Regional Director Jose Apollo Pacamalan said palay delivered to the facility will be prioritized for procurement.

“With coordinated efforts, strategic investments, and community engagement, the Bukidnon NFA rice hub is set to become a cornerstone of Northern Mindanao’s food security and agricultural modernization program,” Pacamalan said.

NFA Bukidnon Branch Manager Maria Chere Buyante said the groundbreaking, held on July 31, marks a significant point for the local agriculture sector, bringing pride and hope to the community. (Leanel Gebon D. Balacuit/PIA-10/Bukidnon)