Guimaras-grown mangoes exported to Europe, HK 

Guimaras mangoes. —PHOTO FROM MANGGAHAN FESTIVAL

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has shipped mangoes grown in Guimaras to Europe and Hong Kong, expanding global export opportunities for the in-demand fruit and providing additional income sources for farmers.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said about 200 kilograms of fresh mangoes from Guimaras were exported, with 50 kilograms going to the Netherlands, another 50 kg sent to Belgium and the rest to Hong Kong.

Consignments to Belgium and the Netherlands will arrive in Brussels, intended as promotional “patikim” (taste test) exports to introduce the mangoes to prospective buyers and industry stakeholders in Europe.

READ: Guimaras festival ‘more than just mangoes’

Special event

Those sent to Hong Kong will be distributed to diplomats and distinguished guests during the 128th Philippine Independence Day celebrations in the Chinese territory.

The DA said that demand for premium tropical fruits continues to grow, adding that this will provide an opportunity to showcase one of the country’s most recognizable agricultural products.

READ: Guimaras mangoes with GI tag will pave way for more PH exports – Angara

The Guimaras mangoes came from Kokomojo Mango Farm in the town of Sibunag.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the government is scaling up efforts to unlock new markets for Philippine agricultural products, aiming to expand beyond traditional markets.

“Every new export market we open creates opportunities not only for our farmers but also for workers involved in processing, logistics, packaging, and distribution,” Tiu Laurel said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Bureau of Plant Industry ensured the compliance of mango exports with international food safety and plant health requirements by providing technical, laboratory, and regulatory services. /cb