Abaca, cacao, and mango drive Quezon’s multi-industry agricultural push

Rowena T. Cruz Farmers and officials inspect abaca fiber production and harvesting practices during a field visit in Real, Quezon. (Quezon ...

Rowena T. Cruz

Farmers and officials inspect abaca fiber production and harvesting practices during a field visit in Real, Quezon. (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Across farms and coastal towns, agricultural activity is moving in parallel as the provincial government continues its support efforts in abaca, cacao, and mango. The approach signals a broader shift toward supporting multiple crops in a way that connects production, protection, and access to buyers.

From March 25 to 26, the Abakabuhayan Program was carried out on the ground in Real, where abaca growers prepared for the coming harvest. The activity brought together farmer groups, cooperatives, and local agriculture officials to strengthen abaca-related livelihoods and improve how products are traded.



Field teams checked plantation conditions, reviewed current fiber prices, and looked at harvesting practices across barangays. These efforts aim not only to increase production but also to help farmers earn more stable and reliable income.

On the same week, attention shifted to cacao as industry leaders met to align priorities under the Cacao Roadmap 2026–2030. The meeting gathered municipal representatives and stakeholders to coordinate plans, improve product quality, and prepare for upcoming regional recognition.

Momentum carried into the annual assembly of the SICAP Quezon Agriculture Cooperative, where discussions focused on expanding access to markets and improving how products are sold. The tone among participants reflected cautious optimism, supported by stronger coordination among producers.

While crop expansion continues, protection measures are also being strengthened as threats to mango production come into focus. On March 30, the Bureau of Plant Industry coordinated with provincial agriculture officials to address risks posed by Mango Pulp Weevil and Mango Seed Weevil.

Planned actions include closer monitoring of plantations, possible movement restrictions when needed, and declaring certain areas free from pests to meet export requirements. These steps are seen as important in protecting fruit quality while maintaining steady mango production.

A field inspection is expected in San Francisco this April, targeting one of the largest mango-producing areas in the province. Sampling and fruit checks will be conducted to ensure safety and maintain quality standards.

Taken together, the simultaneous push across abaca, cacao, and mango reflects a coordinated effort to strengthen agriculture as a source of income. Whether these gains continue will depend on how well production support is matched with consistent market access and long-term coordination.