Posted by agri_center | Posted in Fruit and Nuts, Regional, Research and Development/Product Development | Posted on 16-10-2009
Tags: Add new tag, Philippines: Avocado cultivation gaining ground in South Cotabato
Philippines: Avocado cultivation gaining ground in South Cotabato
Commercial avocado cultivation has gained ground in South Cotabato, with 80 hectares already planted to an early maturing variety bound for export, local Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) officials said on Tuesday.
Aurelio A. Banggayong, Jr., BAS South Cotabato chief, said that Standard Philippines Fruit Corp. (Stanfilco), a subsidiary of Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil), embarked on a contract growing program with upland farmers in Polomolok and Tupi towns for avocado propagation.
“Upland farmers have started planting the avocados. The initial target is 300 hectares with room for expansion,” he said.
The variety of avocado (Persia Americana) pushed by Stanfilco can bear fruit three years after planting, Mr. Banggayong said.
A source from Dolefil, a multinational company based in Polomolok town, confirmed the venture but did not provide additional details. Mr. Banggayong said that Stanfilco, whose major business is Cavendish banana growing, will buy and market the avocados in Japan.
Source: bworldonline.com