PBBM Breaks Ground on Philippines’ First Full-Scale Agricultural Machinery Complex in Cabanatuan

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. officially broke ground on the Philippines' first full-scale agricultural machinery production complex, a landmark 20-hectare facility set to commence construction in 2026 in Cabanatuan City. This initiative, a partnership between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Kamara Industrial Corporation (KAMICO), aims to propel local manufacturing of essential farm equipment and drive agricultural modernization nationwide.

The complex will locally produce a range of machinery including tractors, rice transplanters, threshers, and irrigation pumps. These technologies are expected to enhance productivity and mechanization in key agricultural sectors, reducing the country’s dependence on expensive imported equipment.

Construction will unfold in three phases over four years. Phase 1 (2026-2027) focuses on land development, infrastructure setup, and initial factory building. Phase 2 (2028-2029) involves installation of machinery production lines and staff recruitment. The final Phase 3 (2030) will prioritize full-scale operation ramp-up and distribution networks establishment.

Once operational, the facility plans to distribute newly manufactured machinery to 44 established farmer groups managing over 22,000 hectares of cropland. This distribution will empower smallholder farmers with access to reliable, affordable, and modern tools needed to boost yields.

President Marcos underscored the project as a reflection of his Maasahan at Masipag—Reliable and Industrious—leadership style, emphasizing agricultural modernization as a cornerstone of his administration's economic agenda. "This facility embodies our commitment to reliable innovation and tireless support for Filipino farmers. They deserve tools that uplift their future," he declared during the ceremony.

The President also highlighted the strategic importance of the complex in reducing the Philippines’ long-standing dependence on overpriced farm machinery imports, which has burdened local farmers with costs and limited access.

"By producing these essential machines locally, we not only decrease costs but also foster industrial growth, create jobs, and nurture a self-reliant agricultural sector," PBBM said.

DA Secretary expressed optimism about the project’s impact, noting that mechanization and access to affordable farm equipment are vital for increasing efficiency and sustainability in Philippine agriculture.

This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in the government’s goal to transform agriculture into a modern, resilient, and globally competitive sector, ensuring that Filipino farmers are reliably supported towards a prosperous future.