Re-engineering the paddy rice drying system in the Philippines for climate change adaptation

Abstract

The Philippines is experiencing extreme weather events (typhoons and floods) which often result to significant rice postharvest losses, among other things. In this study, a new and mechanized postharvest system that integrates field handling and drying of the paddy grains is proposed to speed up the operation and help ensure a good quality harvest even when affected by typhoons or floods. The system makes use of eight 500 kg capacity specially-designed bags that function both as grain containers during transport and as drying bins. The drying operation is accomplished using these bags while mounted on the floor inside a typhoon-resistant shelter.

Keywords:

• Climate change adaptation
• drying bags
• paddy rice dryer
• rice postharvest losses

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Additional information

Funding

This project was funded by the Bureau of Agricultural Research of the Department of Agriculture, Philippines.