THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture (DA) XI is exploring the export potential of mango products for the South Korean market.
DA XI is strengthening its efforts to bridge local farmers of the region to international markets through a new linkage initiative with South Korea.
“Farmers in the Davao Region are no longer seen solely as producers but as agripreneurs capable of competing on the global stage while continuing to provide food for local communities,” DA Davao said in a press release.
A farm visit and dialogue with local farmers in three sites in the region were conducted through the DA XI Agriculture and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) technical team, with support from the provincial agriculture offices.
The three sites were the mango farms of Ang Diosnong Maguuma Winner sa Life (ADMWL) association in the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte, the Kibao Integrated Farmers Association (KIFA) in Matanao, and San Roque United Farmers Association (SRUFA) in Digos City, in Davao del Sur.
Representatives of Sae Kyoung Company in South Korea personally met with local leaders of the three mango farms across the region.
David Park, president of Sae Kyoung Company in South Korea, observed the farm practices such as management and production, with particular interest in their organic methods.
Park commended the flavor and quality of one of the mango farm’s produce, and described it as “a really good mango.”
The official committed to sharing the company’s organic farm program protocol with the associations if they wish to pursue a demo trial for export to South Korea, noting the importance of food safety in crop production.
DA-Davao reported that compliance with Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for mangoes is a key consideration for South Korean buyers.
South Korea enforces a strict Positive List System for mangoes, and MRL is a safety standard that defines the highest concentration of pesticide residue legally permitted on fruit.
Exporters must ensure residues are well below the established limits prior to any shipment.
Marie Ann M. Constantino, Agriculture Regional Technical Director for Operations, said the agency is committed to continuing support for farmers in producing safe food for local markets, while expanding their reach internationally to further improve their livelihoods.
DA-Davaio said the Sae Kyoung Company will continue to engage with farmers through DA-AMAD’s assistance.
This market linkage initiative will help transform farmers from producers into agripreneurs who can compete globally, while strengthening food security, rural development, and placing the Philippines’ reputation as a reliable supplier of agricultural goods,” DA-Davao stressed.
Photo: Agri Info Davao
