The Department of Agriculture, through the Bureau of Plant Industry, is collaborating with Altertrade Philippines Inc. to elevate the global market reach of the Balangon banana and bolster the industry in Northern Luzon, Philippines.
Nueva Vizcaya, among seven regions cultivating the Balangon variety, exports 162 boxes weekly to South Korea. Each box weighs 13.5 kg, sourced from Kongkong and Malabing villages in Kasibu. The Balangon banana was initially introduced in Japan in 2016, with Korea joining later through local alliances. A governmental target aims to escalate exports to 324 boxes biweekly.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. supports reducing trade barriers and tariffs, underscoring the banana industry's economic value. Efforts led by Undersecretary Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero and Regional Executive Director Rose Mary G. Aquino focus on enhancing the production, processing, and marketing within the Cagayan Valley region.
During a regional consultation, Aquino pinpointed Burgos, Aurora, and Ilagan City in Isabela for potential backyard plantation, emphasizing climate resilience. "We are encouraging backyard expansion in these areas to enhance local supply, support our farmers, and build resilience against climate-related disruptions," Aquino stated.
Carol P. Albay, from the High Value Crops Development Program, reassures support through fertilizer and irrigation for farmers. Juliet Wasit, assisting Nueva Vizcaya growers, pledged continual support for packaging and export facilitation.
Regional Manager Reden Velarde of BPI Cagayan Valley Plant Quarantine Services is committed to refining export protocols and quality assurance to align with international market standards.
Source: PIA