Banana growers cite need for research body

THE Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) called for the establishment of a banana research institute that will help the industry come up with solutions for the prevention and management of banana pests and diseases.

Stephen Antig, PBGEA executive director, said this is an urgent need to sustain the competitiveness of Philippine bananas in the world market amidst the threat of Fusarium Wilt, otherwise known as Panama Disease.