The Philippines’ National Tobacco Administration (NTA) said landless farmers in Cagayan can enter tobacco production by renting suitable farmland, with partner buying companies potentially providing ₱25,000–₱30,000 ($400 to $480) per hectare in rental assistance along with production inputs and services.
Qualified growers can also participate in the NTA’s Tobacco Contract Growing Scheme, under which farmers repay 60% of production assistance while the remaining 40% is provided as a subsidy. The NTA urged prospective growers to undergo soil testing and site assessments before planting, particularly to ensure adequate water supply and drainage.