The Philippines is stepping up efforts to further expands the global reach of Guimaras mangoes as a fresh batch was shipped to premium markets in Europe and Hong Kong, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Wednesday.
On June 9, some 200 kilograms of fresh mangoes from Kokomojo Mango Farm in Sibunag, Guimaras were shipped abroad, with 50 kilograms bound for the Netherlands, 50 kilograms for Belgium, and 100 kilograms for Hong Kong.
The Belgium and Netherlands consignments are intended as promotional “patikim” (sampling) exports aimed at introducing Guimaras mangoes to prospective buyers and industry stakeholders in Europe, where demand for premium tropical fruits continues to grow.
Brussels will serve as the European port of entry.
The Hong Kong shipment, meanwhile, will be distributed to diplomats and distinguished guests during celebrations marking the 127th Philippine Independence Day, providing another platform to showcase one of the country’s most recognizable agricultural products.
This is still in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to boost food security and global marketability of the Philippine agriculture sector.
In a statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the move is “critical” to help boost the income of local farmers and generate more jobs across the agricultural value chain.
“Every new export market we open creates opportunities not only for our farmers but also for workers involved in processing, logistics, packaging, and distribution,” he said.
Tiu Laurel said expanding the country’s reach in the global market will help secure greater returns and advance “inclusive growth” for farmers in remote areas.
“Expanding market access allows our producers to secure better prices, increase incomes, and invest in improving productivity, helping drive inclusive growth in rural communities,” he said.
The export initiative as supported by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), which provided technical, laboratory and regulatory services to ensure compliance with international food safety and plant health requirements.
The BPI’s Guimaras National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center assisted growers in implementing production technologies and good agricultural practices.
Meanwhile, the Plant Product Safety Services Division conducted maximum residue limit testing to verify compliance with pesticide standards of importing countries.
The National Plant Quarantine Services Division facilitated export permits and phytosanitary certification, a key requirement for market access and proof that the shipment is free from regulated quarantine pests. (PNA)
