IRRI showcases drone-assisted rice farming to Philippine growers

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has demonstrated drone-assisted rice farming technologies to farmers in Laguna province, Philippines, highlighting the potential of digital tools to improve productivity and reduce labor requirements in rice cultivation.

The event, organized with the Field Agricultural Extension Services–Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (FAES-OPA), introduced growers to drone-based direct seeding and crop management under the Drones4Rice project. During the demonstration, agricultural drones distributed seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection products across rice fields, showing how the technology can streamline planting and input application.

According to IRRI specialists, the drones can carry up to around 50 kilograms of materials and cover roughly one hectare in about 10–12 minutes. Equipped with radar sensors for obstacle detection and Real-Time Kinematics positioning systems, the devices can achieve planting accuracy within one to two centimeters. Officials said broader adoption of such technologies could help modernize rice farming, reduce reliance on manual labor, and support higher and more sustainable crop yields.

Sources: IRRI