CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) -- The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Queen Isabela Mango Producers Cooperative, in collaboration with various government agencies, are promoting an off-season harvest trend for mango production in the province. 

During the Mango Summit and the first Mango Off-Season Harvest Festival in Santiago City, mango farmers were encouraged to venture into off-season harvests to increase production, ensure year-round supply, and augment their income. 

Markson P. Tan, president of PCCI Southern Isabela, said the chamber is committed to supporting the mango farmers by providing technical assistance and sharing their expertise in producing off-season mangoes.  

He said the innovation is expected to further boost the mango industry in the province. 

The Department of Agriculture Region 2 officials also expressed their support to the mango farmers, especially by sharing the technology of growing mango trees adaptable to the plantation area soils and climate.

The Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Science and Technology, and the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority also offered their services and expertise to mango farmers for capacity building, marketing, and processing.   

DTI Isabela Provincial Director Ramil Garcia said the mango summit served as a milestone in the journey of the Isabela mango industry players. 

“Through the initiative of PCCI–Southern Isabela Chapter and the support of the different government agencies, the mango stakeholders have propelled the industry forward, unlocking new opportunities for the growth and development of the mango industry,” he said.

On the other hand, FMC Philippines, an agricultural sciences company, showcased its comprehensive mango off-season production guide, which provides invaluable insights and practical strategies to succeed in mango off-season production. 

The company showcased the outcomes of their farming practices including enhanced yields and quality.

The company also highlighted its best practices in mango farming. It also shared with the farmers the important aspects of the off-season mango technology such as pesticide and fungicide management, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainable and resilient mango farming. (OTB/MGE/PIA Isabela)