The Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM) visited the Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) Central Office on February 17, 2025, for a meeting to discuss collaborative initiatives. During the meeting, Mr. Peng, a representative of TTM, highlighted the achievements of the Agri-Cluster Consolidation and Cooperation (ACCC) Project, which has significantly supported farmer cooperatives through the provision of farm inputs, seedlings, and agricultural facilities. He emphasized the introduction of a high-value crop production model, the strengthening of agricultural resilience and disaster reduction systems, and the integration of digital tools to enhance promotional efficiency.
For farming inputs, a natural approach is being promoted, where safe and judicious use of chemicals is being practiced for lower residue levels. Also, self-made soil ameliorants and other natural solutions were utilized to have a circular economy. The project also supported the farmer cooperatives by providing pest and disease management support, especially on their Plant Doctor Program online IPM courses and online consultations.
Grafting industry development was also highlighted, showcasing the utilization of Philippine rootstocks to complement the scion from Taiwan as a means of climate change adaptation.
Furthermore, farmers were encouraged to make their seedlings.
These interventions proved highly successful, generating substantial income. A prime example is the 2,600 sqm bitter gourd farm owned by the “Ampalaya Queen,” which yielded a net profit of Php 390,000.00 during the off-season.
Director Panganiban and AD Gabertan expressed strong interest in involving BPI’s National Crop Research, Development, and Production Support Centers (NCRDPSCs) in the project. They noted that these centers would play a strategic role in achieving the initiative’s objectives.
TTM also presented its 2026-2029 proposal, identifying the Luzon Economic Corridor, the High-Value Crops Development Program, and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) as the key components to drive agricultural growth and empowerment. The proposal prioritizes the production of high-value crops (HVCs) with an emphasis on climate-smart agricultural practices.
Director Panganiban and Assistant Director Gabertan concurred with designating Laguna as the Lowland Vegetable Research Center. Director Panganiban highlighted the benefits of this initiative and expressed his eagerness to commence the project as soon as possible.
This courtesy visit posed not only an avenue for collaboration for an enhanced reach of BPI’s mandates but, more importantly, another step for the institution as a vessel of empowerment for our Filipino farmers.
(022025-26)