Visayas farmers, stakeholders unite in Iloilo for 18th Philippine National Corn Congress

More than 500 participants of corn farmers from Regions VI, VII, VIII, and the Negros Island Region, together with private sector partners, gathered for the 18th Philippine National Corn Congress – Visayas Cluster held from September 23 to 25 at the Iloilo Convention Center in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. The three-day event, led by Undersecretary Roger Navarro, National Corn Program Director Milo Delos Reyes, and U-Nichols Manalo, served as a vital platform to strengthen partnerships, promote modern technologies, and tackle pressing issues in the corn industry.

A highlight of the congress was the plenary session, where participants were updated on the current status of the corn industry, the latest innovations and technologies, as well as emerging market and business opportunities. The session also became a venue for sharing experiences and best practices among farmers and stakeholders across the Visayas.

Exhibits and booths from private company partners added a lively and interactive dimension to the congress, featuring informative displays  and fun activities that drew enthusiastic participation from delegates. Beyond the technical discussions, the congress also celebrated the creativity and culture of the farmers through the Mr. and Mrs. Ka-Mais 2025 Contest, where contestants showcased not only their talents but also their wit and craftsmanship, adding color and excitement to the gathering.

The event culminated with a Field Day at the Participatory Technology Demonstration Farm in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, where farmers witnessed firsthand the performance of different seed varieties and fertilizers. This hands-on exposure allowed them to appreciate the practical application of technologies and innovations discussed during the congress.

Officials emphasized that while the livestock and poultry sectors require around 10 million metric tons (MMT) of corn annually, national production stands at only 6 MMT, leaving a deficit of 4 MMT. Director Delos Reyes noted that production has grown by 3 MMT in the past five years through intensified interventions, but more work is needed to close the gap. The Department of Agriculture committed to address this through the provision of quality seeds, fertilizers, farm machinery, and post-harvest facilities. Western Visayas was highlighted as a strategic growth area, with about 47,000 hectares currently planted to corn. DA Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia stressed the potential of expanding cultivation in rainfed and rice-dominated zones by introducing corn during the dry-season gaps. He underscored the importance of farm management, improved post-harvest systems, and the adoption of bio-fertilizers, soil enhancement, and integrated pest management.

The congress also put a spotlight on the importance of technology and value-chain development. Advanced seed varieties, mechanization, precision farming, and improved storage systems were strongly encouraged, while Undersecretary Navarro called on stakeholders to view corn not only as a feed crop but as a key component of national food security.

Despite challenges such as infrastructure bottlenecks, limited feed milling facilities, and the need for stronger supply chains in the Visayas, the event ended on a hopeful note. Farmers, government officials, and private partners left Iloilo with renewed commitment and optimism that the strategies and partnerships forged during the congress will pave the way for a stronger, more competitive, and resilient corn industry.###

Text and Photos by Aileen Joy Subade/DA-RAFIS 6