GOVPH

Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, Philippines - There's a new dryer - not just for clothes but for something necessary in our daily lives.

In the picturesque town of Tallaoen, nestled in the heart of Ilocos Sur, lies an enterprise that is making a quiet revolution in the world of rice production. The Delmendo Ricemill, in partnership with the DOST, is spearheading a transformation that promises to not only elevate their business but also to improve the lives of local farmers.

Under the ownership of Mr. Elmer and Mrs. Matilde Delmendo, this establishment serves as a foundation in the community that is a crucial hub for rice processing. However, as with any venture, challenges arose, notably in the drying process of freshly harvested paddy.

Delmendo Ricemill's journey of innovation began with a simple yet formidable challenge: the drying of newly harvested paddy. Traditionally, the mill employs the method of sun-drying on a concrete pavement, which manifests limitations, especially during the early harvesting season and frequent rains. To overcome these hurdles and maximize efficiency, the rice mill sought to revolutionize its operations by integrating innovative mechanical dryer technology.

According to Mr. Delmendo, a friend introduced the programs being offered by the DOST. Upon learning about them, he reached out and was granted financial help after they came to an agreement.

"Atoy nga mechanical dryer, ket under ti SETUP program. Ajay SET-UP program, so isu ajay jay ibagbaga mi nga, ‘Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program’ wherein iassist mi agijay firms tapos ket kasla DOST ti manggatang. Ti mangyaryari ket kasla rent to own," John Carlo Lopez, DOST-STII Project Technical Assistant I, said.

As the rice mill recognized the need for change, they invested in cutting-edge technology – a Hopper Type Mechanical Dryer paired with a Husk Furnace, complete with a chimney and exchanger. This upgrade has been transformative. The mechanical dryer can handle larger volumes of wet paddy efficiently, dramatically reducing drying time and ensuring that rice leaves the mill with the ideal moisture content. Post-harvest losses due to high moisture content have become a thing of the past, saving both time and resources.

Not only has this technological advancement upgraded production, but it has also stimulated employment in the area. In an era where job opportunities are rare, Delmendo Ricemill's expansion has brought about positive social change. The firm's growth has led to the creation of 12 new employment opportunities in the first semester of 2023, offering hope and livelihoods to local residents and providing a meaningful contribution to the local economy.

"Ang consider lang naman ng rice mill, iconsider nila yung paglalagyan, kase mahal din yung paglalagyan. Kahit makakaacquire ka ng DOST kung wala ka namang paglalagyan. Halimbawa ang rice mill mo maliit lang, ang problema kung saan mo ilalagay. Yun lang ang (advice) ko, mag-isip-isip muna sila. Kung may paglalagyan na sila, saka sila (makipagpartner) sa DOST," Mr. Elmer Delmendo said.

In harnessing innovation and embracing modern technology, Delmendo Ricemill stands as a beacon of progress, showcasing the transformative power of adopting mechanical dryer technology in the realm of rice processing. Delmendo Ricemill's adoption of Mechanical Dryer Technology is a testament to what innovation, dedication, and the spirit of progress can achieve in the agriculture sector.

Mr. and Mrs. Delmendo and company have not only transformed their business but have also sown the seeds for a brighter future for their community. The vision and success of this project serve as an inspiration for agricultural enterprises across the nation, encouraging them to boldly embrace change and secure a prosperous future.

As the rains fall and the rice paddies glisten with promise, Delmendo Ricemill's success story stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that, with the right tools and vision, we can overcome the toughest challenges in the world of agriculture.(By: John Ghali Benaid and Joanna Paula Sabado, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College-Tagudin Campus)