1 week ago
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TUGUEGARAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) is making all efforts to boost the garlic industry in the island province of Batanes.
DA Region 2 (DA-2) Executive Director Rose Mary Aquino said that in a bid to strengthen garlic production in one of the country's northernmost towns, DA Assistant Secretary for Operations and National Rice Program Director U-Nichols Manalo recently had a dialogue with the Itbayat Garlic Producers Association.
FOR BETTER GARLIC YIELD In a bid to strengthen garlic production in one of the country’s northernmost towns, Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary for Operations and National Rice Program Director U-Nichols Manalo (seventh from left), along with DA Region 2 Executive Director Rose Mary Aquino (fourth from left), engages in a dialogue with the Itbayat Garlic Producers Association. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Aquino said the dialogue was aimed at addressing key challenges and exploring opportunities to enhance garlic production, storage, and marketing in the island municipality.
"Among the concerns raised were the lack of proper storage facilities, limited market access, and factors affecting yield," she said.
Highlighting its significance in meeting the rising demand for locally grown garlic beyond Batanes, Manalo underscored the potential use of boron as a key nutrient to improve garlic bulb quality and yield.
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Barby Balcita of the DA-2 Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section said that the discussions during the dialogue also focused on the registration of Itbayat garlic with the National Seed Industry Council to enhance its recognition and commercial value.
During the dialogue, Balcita said the expansion of production areas and logistical support for storage and transport were also tackled to improve its competitiveness in larger markets.
Aquino reaffirmed the commitment of DA-2 to local garlic farmers, citing ongoing collaboration with local government units to support both marketing and production.
Through its support, she said the DA hopes to boost garlic farming and give better income opportunities to farmers in remote areas like Itbayat.
