Syngenta puts up $8-million seed plant in Pangasinan

MANILA, Philippines -  Syngenta Philippines has invested $8 million on a new seed processing plant in Binalonan, Pangasinan.

The new facility, which was formally opened Tuesday, can process 2,000 tons of hybrid corn seeds per year. It is equipped with world-class processing technology, such as fully automated seed conditioning, shelling, sorting, drying and quality control capabilities.

The state-of-the-art capabilities of the Syngenta plant will ensure the preservation of seed viability and will prolong the shelf life of seeds.

Syngenta Philippines country head Recher Ondap said “this investment reinforces the commitment of Syngenta to the Philippines and its farmers as we continue to bring the best technology in agriculture to the country.”

Ondap said that “by growing and processing the hybrid corn in the Philippines, Syngenta ensures that our farmers can get seeds that are newly harvested, has excellent germination potential and are well suited to local conditions. In this way, Syngenta also contributes towards the food security goals of the Philippines.”

The new plant employs 150 workers from Binalonan and nearby towns.

Additionally, local farmers from Pangasinan are assured of improved income by supplying harvested corn for processing. The local farmers will be guaranteed a competitive fixed price for the corn they provide.

“Our new plant will contribute positively to the continued development of the local economy and surrounding community,” Ondap said, adding that “starting in 2012, the Pangasinan facility will also start exporting our seeds to neighboring ASEAN countries.”

Syngenta Philippines has been producing and distributing corn hybrid seeds since July 2001. The company now has seven varieties marketed under the NK brand.