Agriculture has greatly played a big part in the early economy of the Philippines and in the past, there were years when we became one of the great exporters of agricultural products in Asia. But despite the drastic plans for industrialization of our country and the fast intervention of technology in almost every aspect of our society, Philippines is still considered as an agricultural country for most of our citizens in the rural areas are still supporting themselves with agriculture.
It is true that we have seen better days of our agricultural assets. Importing products like corn, coconut, sugarcane, and rice has greatly declined in the past years. There are many visible proofs that things are not going too well when it comes to our agricultural standing, especially in the farming industry. Instead of exporting, we are now importing rice. The climate has not been friendly for us too; frequent storm visits are ruining crops and the long droughts and El Nino are creating dead seasons for planting. Soil for farming is becoming unfertile due to chemicals and pollution. Almost every decade, there are food scares like foot and mouth disease, red tide, bird flu, and mad cow disease. Fields are turning into residential subdivision lots and golf courses. There are also little efforts for agrarian reform. We also lack research facilities. And the greatest threat to improve agriculture in The Philippines is that it is very costly for farmers to sustain crop rotation, fund fertilizer, and install reliable irrigation systems.
The inadequacy in funding for development and research of projects that will actually help farmers has been a pressing issue that has pushed farmers to find alternative solutions to continue cultivate their farms. One of the best breakthroughs in agriculture, to adapt to poor irrigation and drought, is building an HDPE pipe irrigation and sprinkler system. These plastic piping are ideal for Philippine climate since there are no harsh winters that may freeze the water inside the pipes and water is less likely to evaporate during warm days. HDPE pipes and fittings are lightweight which make them easy to handle and transport, and it is also available in broad range of sizes. These HDPE pipes can also be extended as watering systems for hydrating poultry and live stocks; cleaning stables, coops, and pens; and humidity control—a perfect fit for both small and big scale farms.
Having a reliable HDPE pipes in the Philippines irrigation and water system does secure some of the agricultural needs and lessens other labors that usually takes longer to accomplish. This idea has also opened up the minds of agriculturist to try alternatives that will somehow answer to the current agricultural situation such as indoor farming which also makes smart use of HDPE pipes.
It is relieving to see that there are alternatives available to save the industry that is once the pride and glory of the country. Let this serve as a wake-up call for us about the things that we take for granted for progress’s sake before it become just an agricultural pipe dream.
