Farmers in Bicol urged to harvest rice, corn ahead of Kristine

The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday urged farmers to harvest their rice and corn crops as Tropical Depression Kristine approaches the Philippines.—GEORGE GIO BRONDIAL

LEGAZPI CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday urged farmers to harvest their rice and corn crops as Tropical Depression Kristine approaches the Philippines.

State meteorologists said Kristine was expected to intensify into a tropical storm by Tuesday, bringing heavy rains and possible flooding across the Bicol region.

The DA advised farmers to harvest rice once it is 85 percent ripe and corn when it reaches 85- to 90-percent maturity.

READ: Bicol region on red alert as Tropical Depression Kristine looms

Farmers could use combine harvesters available at the DA regional office in Pili, Camarines Sur, as well as at research outreach stations in Daet, Camarines Norte, and Masbate City.
The DA also recommended drying harvested rice using flatbed dryers distributed to farmers’ cooperatives, associations, and local government units in the region. INQ