Republic of the Philippines
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Philippine Center for Postharvest
Development and Mechanization
CLSU Compound, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija

NEWS STORIES

Postharvest Loss Prevention Week kicks off today
by Vladimir B. Caliguiran (May 20, 2013)
The observance of the 14th Postharvest Loss Prevention Week kicks off today at the PHilMech headquarters in Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija with the theme "Makabagong Teknolohiya, Maunlad na Agrikultura."


A motorcade and machinery parade at the Science City started the celebration. This was followed by the opening of Agri-Machinery Exhibition and Demonstration at PHilMech compound.

Members of the Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (AMMDA) and other local manufacturers are showcasing the latest technologies in agriculture like tractors, mechanical transplanters, combine harvesters, rice milling facilities, grain dryers, and storage facilities among others.


Simultaneous with the exhibition is a technical symposium conducted for farmers' organizations, processors, and other stakeholders.


The exhibit will last until May 22 during the Mechanization and Postharvest Industry Day and the celebration of PHilMech 35th Anniversary.


The inauguration and blessing of the Agricultural Mechanization Development and Demonstration Center (AMDDC) will be also conducted on May 22. The AMDDC will showcase developed agricultural machinery and tools that are commercially-available and user-friendly.


Launching and turn-over of PHilMech projects such as Computer Vision System for Rice and Corn, Directory of Agricultural Machinery Distributors in the Philippines, Tractor Implements for Various Farm Operations and AMMDA Display will also highlight the Industry Day. Leaders of the Department of Agriculture are expected to grace the event.


The celebration of the Postharvest Loss Prevention Week aims to create awareness to curb postharvest losses and maintain food safety and sufficiency. This activity started in May 2000 through Proclamation No. 298 declaring every fourth week of May as Postharvest Loss Prevention week.