In the latest report from the Philippine Statistics Authority Region VI (PSA-6), Iloilo has been identified as the foremost producer of key fruits and vegetables in Western Visayas for the third quarter of 2024. The province's contribution to mango production was notably high, with 2,269 metric tons, marking 77.9% of the region's total output. Following Iloilo, Negros Occidental and Aklan produced 10.6% and 5.6% of the mangoes, respectively.
Furthermore, Iloilo was the leading producer of pineapples, contributing 67.2% to the region's total of 4,851 metric tons, and calamansi, with 53.9% of the 915 metric tons produced. Although Iloilo came in second to Negros Occidental in banana production, it still contributed a significant 27.3% to the regional output of 56,757 metric tons.
The province also showed dominance in the production of vegetables and root crops, accounting for 70.2% of the region's eggplant production and 74.1% of tomato production. In addition, Iloilo led in ampalaya production with a 30.6% share and contributed 10.7% to the region's sweet potato output and 26.6% to mungbean production.
The PSA-6 report categorizes major crops into non-food and industrial crops, fruit crops, and vegetable and root crops, highlighting the diverse agricultural output of the region. Iloilo's substantial contributions across various categories underscore its role as a key agricultural player in Western Visayas.
Source: Daily Guardian