CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga – Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. led the Ceremonial Planting of the Guimaras Mango trees as part of the Clark Development Corp. (CDC) and Department of Agriculture through the DA-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) Mango Rejuvenation Program at Comercio Central sa R.C. Santos Street, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.
The program is a collaborative effort to rejuvenate and optimize the productivity of existing mango trees across 5 hectares within the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) and adjacent areas. The BPI-Guimaras National Crop Research, Development And Production Support Center (BPI-GNCRDPSC), recognized as the country’s national center for mango research and development, spearheads the initiative, bringing specialized expertise to the region.
The objectives of the mango rejuvenation program include rehabilitating existing trees through the adoption of Integrated Crop Management (ICM), introduce improved production technologies and integrated pest and disease management strategies from BPI-Guimaras, build local capacity through farmer and locator training on mango rejuvenation, pruning, and flower induction, and support CDC’s Zero Kilometers Food System by promoting local fruit production within available CFZ lots. Lastly, align with DA’s broader agri-development agenda, particularly the modernization goals of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA).
The Mango Rejuvenation Program is a crucial step towards achieving the Clark Freeport Zone’s Zero Kilometers Food System, ensuring that CFZ residents and workers will soon have access to high-quality, locally produced mangoes. In addition, provide valuable skills training to local farmers and strengthen their livelihood.
Joining Secretary Tiu Laurel at the ceremonial planting were DA-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) Assistant Director, Ruel C. Gesmundo, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, and CDC Board Chairman Atty. Edgardo Pamintuan Sr. ### (By DA – Bureau of Plant Industry & photos by Jay Morales)
