The Philippines - Provincial government of Davao de Oro launches the yellow corn production derby

The provincial government of Davao de Oro in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) 11, and other stakeholders, has launched the yellow corn production derby to ensure that the source of high-quality genetically modified corn seeds are high yielding as well as pest, weed and disease tolerant. 

"Moreover, the activity [is] sought to assess the growth, performance, and adaptability of the various seeds at various elevations and weather conditions," the Davao de Oro Provincial Information Office said in a statement. It added that the data gathered will be used as the basis for procurement by DA 11 in the coming years. 

Among the six participating seed companies were Asian Hybrid, Syngenta, Vigour, Bioseed, Bayer, and Corteva. The corn derby took place in six strategic sites — three low elevation and three high elevation — in the regions of Purok Bulahan, Sitio New Leyte of Barangay New Albay in Maragusan town. 

Regional corn and cassava alternate focal person Leorence Nasol said that the program aims to boost the production of yellow corn in the region and not depend on the importation of the supply. It will also study the quality of various corn seeds, their growth in different locations and weather conditions. 

The DA Davao Regional Office said that the department allotted a budget of P40 million for corn seeds and P20 million for fertilizers that are set to be distributed to farmers in the province.