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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Laguna taps drone to plant rice

Laguna taps drone to plant rice

Published Feb 20, 2026 09:52 pm
THE province of Laguna taps drones to plant rice. (Photo via Danny Estacio)
THE province of Laguna taps drones to plant rice. (Photo via Danny Estacio)
The Field Agricultural Extension Services-Office of the Provincial Agriculturist-Laguna introduced drone-assisted rice planting on Friday, Feb. 20.
Using drone technology is part of its rice technology demonstration in collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the town of Los Banos, Laguna.
This approach aims to enhance efficiency, reduce labor, and improve accuracy in rice cultivation in the province.
The drone can carry up to 50 kilograms of materials such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, and can also be used for spraying.
Depending on the speed and altitude, it can cover one hectare in 10 to 12 minutes, with faster settings completing the task in approximately 10 minutes.
The drone is rechargeable using a generator within 12 to 15 minutes, making it highly efficient for field operations.
Safety features are a key part of the drone technology.
It is equipped with radar that can sense obstacles five to 10 meters away and includes RTK (Real-Time Kinematics) technology, allowing precise planting accuracy up to one to two centimeters.
Drone operators are required to hold a valid pilot license, and additional certification is needed for pesticide applications.
The drone can only be used for seed and fertilizer application unless all necessary licenses are secured.
This drone assisted method was called a significant step in modernizing rice farming in Laguna.
The FAES said that it reduces manual labor, speeds up planting processes, and ensures a higher level of precision in seed and fertilizer placement, which can lead to better crop yields and more sustainable farming practices.

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