Philippines: N. Mindanao rice output rises two percent

A total regional production of 964,327 metric tons of corn has been noted in Northern Mindanao in 2006, up by 2.8 percent compared to 938,277 metric tons in 2005.

"In terms of value, last year's production amounted to P8.389 billion, higher by P1.116 billion or 15.35 percent over that of 2005 which amounted to P7.273 billion," Regional Executive Director (RED) Lealyn Abellanosa-Ramos of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Northern Mindanao said.

She also said production of white corn actually increased, from 339,889 metric tons to 368,959 metric tons or 8.6 percent, with the corresponding increase in value of P2.498 billion to P3.132 billion or 25.4 percent.