1st half Palay output to grow by 14.9 percent — BAS

Palay production for the first semester is expected to increase by 14.9 percent compared to the same period last year, according to the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS). Palay output from January to June 2011 is seen reaching 7.6 million metric tons (MT). “We expect peak of planting starting June and July, which is almost 63 percent of the total 2011 wet season target planting," National Rice Program coordinator Dante Delima said. In a report to Agriculture Secretary Processor Alkali, Delima cited BAS figures saying production may hit 9.89 metric tons in the ongoing wet season — from May to October — making it possible to attain the 17.46-million MT target for the year. — BC/ VS, GMA News