To present the initial Value Chain Analysis (VCA) findings for taro and to generate the industry competitiveness vision through a series of interactive workshops, the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Regional Project Coordination Office (RPCO) Bicol I-PLAN Component conducted a Taro VCA Stakeholders Consultation.

Ms. Mary Ann Cuya, Head of the I-PLAN Component, emphasized that the goal of the activity was to provide an update on the current state of the taro industry in the region, while also collaboratively identifying opportunities, tackling the challenges, and ensuring the sustainable development of the industry. 

“We are here to connect, share our knowledge and collectively build a stronger future for our taro farmers and businesses”, she said.

Engr. John Jeric Batanes, the I-PLAN Planning Officer, gave a brief overview of the PRDP, outlined its scope and objectives, and set the atmosphere for a productive and solution-oriented consultation.

During the consultation, various groups of stakeholders were present, including Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs), such as the Pilinio Federation of High Value Crops Growers Inc.; Deloverges Farm; and Isarog Farmers. These organizations played a vital role in representing the interests of local farmers. Representatives from the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Nabua and Pili, Camarines Sur, were also present to further strengthen the collaborative efforts to enhance the local taro industry.

During the activity, several key issues and challenges were identified, including the lack of post-harvest facilities, insufficient information and training on processing and production, and the absence of dedicated trading posts. To address these concerns, representatives from crucial government agencies, in addition to the Department of Agriculture (DA) RFO 5, participated in the event. These agencies included the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). Their collective expertise and insights proved invaluable in helping to formulate potential solutions for the issues faced by the taro industry.

The participants actively engaged in a series of workshops that identified key issues and explored practical solutions for the taro sector. Through collaborative discussions, they worked together to develop strategies that would help the growth of the industry in the long run. ### (Shaira Enimedez, PRDP Bicol InfoAce)

Various groups of stakeholders from Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs), Representatives from the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Nabua and Pili, Camarines Sur, and government agencies were present during the Taro VCA Stakeholders Consultation

Participants actively engaged in a series of workshops that identified key issues and explored practical solutions for the taro sector