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THE Department of Agriculture is considering a huge infusion of
seeds, fertilizers and other production inputs to sustain the growth
of the high-value crops commercial sector (HVCC) for the rest of
2008.
In his report to Secretary Arthur Yap,
Ginintuang Masaganang Ani-HVCC national program coordinator, Dr.
Rene Rafael Espino said that he is also recommending the transfer of
new farming technologies to growers, along with the promotion of
stronger linkages between fertilizer suppliers and farmer groups to
maintain the high production of bananas, pineapples and other HVCCs.
Espino said he also proposed the enhancement of
training programs on integrated pest management strategies, and an
increase in the off-season production of HVCCs to sustain the
subsector’s growth until the end of 2008.
The 1st quarter output of bananas surpassed the
target of 1.76 million metric tons as indicated by preliminary
figures, showing production reaching 1.92 million metric tons, which
is higher than last year’s 1.59 million metric tons for the same
period, or a 20.65-percent increase.
For mangoes, the 1st quarter production of
176,905 metric tons was below the target of 224,738 metric tons,
because of the La Niña-induced rainy periods during November and
December.
Pineapple production of 486,701 metric tons
during the 1st quarter was higher than last year’s yield of
445,039 metric tons for the same period, representing a 9.36-percent
hike.
For vegetables, production was flat at 460,262
metric tons in the first three months of 2008 compared to the same
period in 2007, owing to heavy rainfall, the late harvesting in some
areas, and the conversion of certain vegetable growing sites to corn
and other crops.
To increase vegetable production, areas for
off-season planting will be expanded; inputs such as seeds, plastic
mulch and fertilizers will be provided; rain shelters and plastic
houses will be built; and more Bagsakan centers will be established.
-- Ira Karen Apanay
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